Age 95, passed away at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo on October 21, 2019. Mary Jo was born in Petersburg, MI, on February 9, 1924, the daughter of the late Harry (Russell) and Marjorie (Brown) Ellis Sr. She took an avid interest in education and earned a master’s degree. She taught elementary school for a total of 31 years. When not working her adventurous spirit took her on many trips, including one to China and Japan. Mary Jo loved her family and friends and leaves behind many wonderful memories to be cherished. She is survived by two children, John (Teresa) Alger and Paula Steffens; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and friends. She was also preceded in passing by two husbands, Ivan Alger and Howard Palmer; a brother, Harry (Russ) Ellis Jr.; son-in-law Jeff Steffens.