Portrait of Jo Ann Walton Parham. IMB Photo

Jo Ann Walton Parham, an International Mission Board missionary emeritus who shared the gospel in Nigeria, died Sept. 13, 2025. She was 95.  

Jo Ann was born Sept. 15, 1929, in Ocala, Florida, to the late Samuel R. and Willie Mae Hugghins Walton. She graduated from P.K. Yonge Laboratory School in Gainesville, Florida; received the Bachelor of Arts from the University of Florida, Gainesville, and attended the Woman’s Missionary Union Training School (later merged with Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) in Louisville, Kentucky. She also received the Master of Education and Doctor of Education from the University of Florida in Gainesville. 

During college, she met Bob Parham, a fellow student who was leading the singing in a revival at her church. They became engaged and were married on Sept. 6, 1949. Bob served as a pastor until they both finished college in August 1950. Following graduation, they moved to Kentucky, where Bob started seminary. Jo Ann taught first grade in Jefferson County, Kentucky, and attended the Woman’s Missionary Training School. During the summer of 1952, they worked in Girls’ Auxiliary and Royal Ambassador camps (mission organizations for children). 

While seeking missionary appointment she wrote, “I have always felt the need for foreign missions. My interest and concern has grown since I met and married my husband. Because of his call to the mission field, I see my call to go with him. It is my desire to be of service to all people of the world, and I pray that we might be instrumental in leading some to Christ.” 

In 1953, the International Mission Board appointed Bob and Jo Ann missionaries to Nigeria, where they served for 20 years.  

Jo Ann was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Robert (Bob) Parham; her daughter, Cindy Parham; her son, Dr. Robert Parham III; and a great-grandson, Thomas Reel.  

She is survived by her sons, Sam Parham (Kathy), Terry Parham, and Danny Parham (Elaine); her daughter-in-law, Betsy Nunn Parham; 14 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.  

A funeral service was held Nov. 15 at First Baptist Church of Gainesville.  

Read an obituary here.