On May 21, 2025, Josephine J., known to all as Jo, turned 100 years old. Family, friends, and fellow residents gathered at North Point Village in Spokane to celebrate a century of a life well-lived.
As long as you love people and like to have fun, you could end up living like Jo.
From Addy to a Full Life
Jo was born in the small town of Addy, Washington in 1925. If you’ve ever driven Highway 395 from Spokane toward Canada, you’ve passed through it. Today, Addy has a population of about 122 people. Back when Jo was born, it was even quieter — mainly farmland and logging activity with a general store.
She grew up surrounded by nature, which may be where her love for the outdoors began. Even now, Jo enjoys flowers, gardening, and relaxing outside when the Spokane weather allows.
A Lifetime of Love and Family
Jo married Warren just after he returned from World War II. Their marriage lasted a remarkable 72 years. Together, they raised a son and a daughter. Her family has since grown to include two grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
When asked about the secret to such a long and fulfilling life, Jo said:
“We lived like normal people, but we were happy, and that was important. I love people, like to have fun, like to make friends, and laugh.”
Work, Golf, and Snowbird Seasons
Jo’s work life started with a unique job — operating an elevator. At the time, you had to navigate floors manually with a lever. She then worked as a bank teller and later became a teacher’s aide, helping students with disabilities.
After retirement, Jo and Warren enjoyed winters in warmer places like California and Arizona. Her favorite destination? Bullhead City, Arizona, right along the Colorado River. She spent many happy days there, soaking up the sun.
Jo also took up golf for over a decade. She played on a team at the Grangeville Country Club in Idaho and even scored two hole-in-ones!
Life at North Point Village
Jo moved into North Point Village on her 97th birthday — May 21, 2022. Since then, she’s made many friends and shared stories from her rich life. Whether chatting with our team members, spending time in the garden, or attending events, Jo brings joy wherever she goes.
North Point Village offers community-based assisted living and the Connections memory care program. Our daily social events, wellness programs, and chef-prepared meals help older adults live independently with their best friends.
Inspired by Jo
When asked what her favorite technology was over her lifetime, Jo simply replied, “I don’t know a heck of a lot about that.” When you live with love and happiness in your heart, that’s all you need.
Jo’s story reminds us that a full life is made of simple joys. At North Point Village, we are proud to provide a home where residents like Jo can keep adding to their stories.
We’re honored to be part of Jo’s journey, and we’d love for you or your loved one to be part of our next celebration.
For more information about North Point Village or to schedule a tour, please contact our Spokane team.
Want to keep looking around our community before contacting us?
- Look at photos of our assisted living and memory care community.
- Read more about our assisted living and memory care services.
- View our floor plans, photos of our apartments, and amenities.
- How senior living pricing works: our ultimate guide.
