JoAnn Buriel

Our Matriarch Sister, Aunt, Mother and Cousin was called to the loving arms of our Lord and Savior on March 6, 2021 at the age of 68 years. Jo was born to the late Henry and Mary Burrell/ Buriel on September 5, 1952 in Saginaw, Michigan.

Jo’s memory will be cherished by her siblings: Lee Nickerson, Thelma (Hezekiah) Harris of Chicago, Illinois, Jean McElhaney, Esau Burrell/ Buriel, a host of nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

Jo was predeceased by six brothers: Willie, Varney, Lloyd, Henry Jr., David, Jacob and six sisters: Dorothy Harris, Betty, Daisy, Mildred, Barbara, and Connie Smith.

Jo attended Saginaw High School. She was a faithful member of Zion Missionary Baptist Church all of her life, under the leadership of Pastor Reverend Dr. Roosevelt Austin Sr. and Rev. Rodrick A. Smith. She was Member of the Male and Gospel Mass Choir until her health declined.

Jo worked for Covenant Healthcare until she separated in 1998. In her sparetime she loved to read her bible, cook and watch cartoons (because of all the violence on Tv). Jo had a personality that kept family and friends laughing. Jo kept a special place in her heart for her great niece Leah Case and family, who brought her so much joy before and during her final days.

Jo would like to let you all know her work here is complete. She received a call, a sort of offer she could not refuse, for an appointment from which she will not be returning. This assignment comes with a huge sign- on bonus, a reunion with family and friends she has not seen in a long time.

Job security is exactly 110 percent. Her new mission takes her to a wonderful place, singing until her heart’s content. Music, laughter and love are guaranteed. Jo has left detailed instructions for her family and all of the ones she assisted in raising, to celebrate her mission. Low adherence to this instruction will not be tolerated. She wanted to let you know that she did a great job and to wish her a safe journey.

We will remember Jo’s smile, her warmth, her energy and her love for life, family and friends. Jo worked hard all of her life, raising more than 70 children of her nieces, nephews, sisters, brother and cousin’s children.

Jo has definitely made a difference in the lives of many. Jo will truly be missed. We invite you to join us and celebrate together.

The family would like to express special thanks to the staff of the ICU at Covenant Healthcare Harrison, and the staff of Case Funeral Home. Special thanks to her nieces, Victoria Harris and Esther McGee, a great neice Brandi Buck, two dear friends Carl Mosley and Odessa Davis.

A funeral service will take place at 11:00 am on Friday, March 12, 2021 at W.L. Case and Company (4480 Mackinaw Road, Saginaw, Michigan, 48603). Rev. Rodrick A. Smith will officiate. Burial will take place at Forest Lawn Cemetery following the service. Friends may visit with the family from 10:00 am until the time of the service. Due to the worldwide health pandemic, building capacity will be limited, face coverings will be required and social distancing will be encouraged .We appreciate everyone’s effort to reduce the spread of Covid- 19 in our community.

The service for JoAnn may be viewed here: