Mary J. Pearson

Mary Josette Pearson

September 18, 1955 - January 11, 2026

Mary Josette “Mary Jo” Pearson, 70, of Altoona passed away peacefully Sunday at her residence.

Mary Jo was born in Altoona, the daughter of the late John Wesley and Rose Marie (Lockard) Callis. She is survived by her husband: Lynn R. Pearson, whom she married on June 23, 1979, at St. Marks, and two daughters: Sarah Ragan of Warrenton, VA, and Jennifer Pearson (Mike Fernandes) of Kansas City, MO, and two grandchildren, Rory C. and Owen T. Ragan; her siblings, Anlee (George) Auker; Mark A. (Jodie deceased) Callis; James A. (Karen) Callis; and her nieces and nephews, Scott, Stephanie, Wayne, Jacob, Jessica, Michael and Andrew. Preceded in death by her brother Jeffery M. Callis.

Mary Josette was a member of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament.

She graduated from Bishop Guilfoyle High School class of 1973, received her Associates Degree in Nursing from Mount Aloysius College class of 1975, and achieved her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing class of 1999.

She was a Registered Nurse, employed by Altoona Regional System Hospital, retiring after 39 years of service.

Mary Jo enjoyed being with her family, gardening, flowers, animals, soap operas, and music.

At the request of the deceased, there will be no viewing. Private Inurnment at Calvary Cemetery.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the UPMC- Hillman Cancer Shadyside, Pittsburgh, PA, UPMC Magee-Women’s Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, and UPMC-Altoona Family Hospice for the excellent care given to Mary Jo.