The first time I met her, I thought I had stabbed her in the back … literally, with a pencil. It was 20 some years ago and we were right in the middle of our annual box lunch project, dozens of individuals gathered at the Congregational Church, work stations set up where groups made and wrapped sandwiches to go in the lunches the next day.
Jo and her sister Molly were at one table making egg salad sandwiches just as fast as their little hands could work. I was running around like a chicken without a head, keeping things flowing and organized, and more or less driving everybody crazy. Just as I passed behind Jo I slipped on the floor, went flying, and when I hit the floor I realized that the pencil that was in my hand was no longer there. “Oh my God” I cried as I jumped up to my feet (something I could do a lot faster back in the day), “did I stab you with my pencil?” Jo turned around, took one look at the panic on my face, and started to laugh.
Over the years Jo and Molly worked many fundraisers, but their favorite was always the box lunch. Jo became a close friend as I got to know her sweet disposition, gentle nature and good humor. In her later years, she wasn’t able to volunteer as often, but I remember with a smile all the times she donated chicken stew for our lunches, or rolls, or how she would ask about Shelter issues and listen intently as I went on and on about this dog or that cat.
Jo adopted the most special little long haired dog, Cooter, and he would spend hours upon hours in her lap. She lived for that little dog. Her love of animals was one of many things that connected us. She was my church buddy, back pew, always a big smile and a big hug. I was just one of many in the Josephine McGuire fan club, and when she had to go into a nursing home right around the same time COVID-19 hit the country, we were all saddened that we couldn’t visit.
This past week Jo went home to be with the Lord. The board and staff of the Houlton Humane Society would like to send condolences to the family. One of Jo’s sons is a long-time volunteer for the shelter, and being a private individual, one who does not like a fuss made. I will only share that he has probably donated 10,000 hours over the years, plowing our snow, doing repairs as needed, helping with fundraisers and basically carrying on his mother’s passion to give of time and talent.
The shelter isn’t just a building full of animals, it is a family, it is a group of dedicated individuals, staff, board, volunteers, donors, adopters, all working together for a common cause. Every one of you leaves your mark on our hearts, every single act of kindness helps continue this work. Every time you share a post on facebook of shelter needs, successes, issues, you become part of the family.
Jo was family. She was shelter family and she was family to me, and many others. We are going to miss you sweet Jo.
The Houlton Humane Society is located on 263 Callaghan Road, Houlton, ME. Officials can be reached at 532-2862 or via email at info@houltonhumanesociety.net.
