Mary Jo “Jodi” Hess, 68, of Idaho Falls, passed away peacefully Thursday, January 2, 2020, at her home.

Jodi was born February 18, 1951, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to John William “Jack” Heward and Violet Griggs Heward. She graduated from Idaho Falls High School in 1969.

After earning her dental assisting certificate, Jodi worked in the dental industry for many years. The highlight of her career was working as a dental assistant and later an office manager for her great friend Dr. Hollen J. Hiller. After moving to Nampa to spend time with her only grandson, she returned to Idaho Falls where she spent the last ten years working at Famous Dave’s. Her co-workers and regular customers became like family.

Jodi was a proud member of Idaho Falls Elks Lodge No. 1087. She competed with the ritual team and won the All-American Award as Chaplain in 2004.  While living in Nampa she continued her work as an officer at Nampa Elks Lodge No. 1389 where she served as Exalted Ruler. The Elks gave Jodi the opportunity to be in service to others.  She had many friends at both lodges that loved her and will miss her.  She also loved to golf, bowl, spend time with her grandson and make people laugh. Her wit was unmatched, and her strength and courage were immeasurable.

Jodi is survived by her daughter Emily Judy, son-in-law Rob Judy and grandson Landon Judy of Nampa, Idaho; her son R.G. Hess of St. George, Utah; her mother Violet Heward of Idaho Falls, Idaho; her brothers Bill Heward of Des Moines, Iowa; Jim (Sheila) Heward of Bella Vista, Arkansas and her sister Jeri (Will) Hodges of St. Paul, Minnesota.

She was preceded in death by her father, Jack Heward and her sister Jill Hunter.  There will be a service and a celebration of life at the Idaho Falls Elks Lodge at a later date.

https://www.coltrinmortuary.com/obituary/jodi-hess