Jo Ann Painter

Jo Ann lived in Los Alamos for 50 years. She worked at LANL as a secretary and did photo composition and this started her into computers. Jo Ann was selected to enter a LANL program to gain a degree in Computer Science. She graduated in 1995 and became a LANL staff member. She worked on programs that took her around the country and overseas.

During this time period she helped raise two boys. The oldest went to the US Naval Academy and sent 20 years in the Marine Corp as a helicopter pilot. The second son went to UNM any now does computer system management.

After retiring Jo Ann became very serious about quilting and eventually started a long arm quilting service. She is very well known for her design creativity and color selection.

JoAnn was the most energetic quilting retreat buddy anyone could ask for.  She was always prepared with a self-effacing pun or joke to get us relaxed and focused. She could read the frustration in other quilters and was a keen-eyed problem solver whether it be machine problems or fabric choices. She served as vice-president and president Los Alamos Piece Makers Guild. Her favorite chair position was when she headed the UFO’s chair. She so enjoyed encouraging the other members to finish projects that just seem to not get finished.

Their home is full of many, many quilts.