Mary Jo Lewis Obituary

Mary Jo Lewis (née Dworzack), age 89, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2025, in Weston, Florida. A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, teacher, and friend, she leaves behind a legacy of strength, warmth, and unwavering dedication to those around her.

Mary Jo was born on July 25, 1935, in Burlington, Iowa, to Frances C. Enwall Dworzack and Joseph A. Dworzack. She pursued her education with determination and purpose, earning degrees from Western Illinois State College in Macomb and Drake University in Des Moines. Her passion for teaching led her to a fulfilling career as an elementary school educator. She began teaching second grade at Grimes School in Burlington before moving to Newton, Iowa, where she taught second grade at Emerson Hough and later first grade at Lincoln School for over twenty years. Her influence shaped the lives of countless students during her decades of service.

Mary Jo married Melvin L. Lewis on June 30, 1957 and together they built a life rooted in love and family. Though Melvin preceded her in death, their shared values continued to guide the generations that followed.

She is survived by her daughters Michelle Duffy Fosenburg and her husband Jeff, and Melissa Neborak and her husband Mike; granddaughters Caitlin Duffy Parker and her husband Steven, Christina Duffy, and Margaux Neborak; and great-granddaughter Isabella Parker. She was also preceded in death by her grandson Michael Lewis Neborak; brothers Michael L. Dworzack and James A. Dworzack; along with her parents.

Mary Jo lived life with energy and enthusiasm. Prior to her cancer diagnosis in 2020, she was known throughout her neighborhood as "the walking lady," never missing a day to get in her miles. Her motto-"if you rest, you rust"-reflected the vitality with which she approached each day. Whether walking briskly through the neighborhood or hosting friends and family in a home beautifully decorated for every holiday, Mary Jo brought joy wherever she went.

She had a deep love for community activities including sewing, playing bridge and bunco with friends, participating in book club discussions, and enjoying tennis matches. Her involvement at St. Paul Lutheran Church was central to her life; she was an active member of the bell choir and found fellowship among fellow OWLs (Older Wiser Lutherans).

Even after being diagnosed with stage 4 NET cancer in 2020-a diagnosis that would have discouraged many-Mary Jo remained resilient. Her strength of body and mind carried her through five remarkable years of treatment with grace and courage. She faced each challenge as a warrior until the very end.

Her memory will live on through the many lives she touched-as an educator who inspired young minds, as a neighbor who brightened every block with her daily walks and festive decorations, as a hostess who welcomed all into her home like family-and most importantly as a woman whose spirit never wavered.

May Mary Jo's enduring strength continue to inspire all who knew her. A Memorial Service will be held on August 9, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Paul Lutheran Church - 580 Indian Trace, Weston, FL 33326. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church in her name.