Emma "Jo" Genson Shapard, age 96, of Franklin, passed away October 31, 2005.

She was born in Westin, Ohio the daughter of Ezra and Ann Belle Ellis. She was a member of the Eastern Star and a charter member of Unity Church in Toledo, Ohio. She was also a member of Bethel Methodist Church in Franklin. Emma Jo enjoyed a 30 year career in real estate in the state of Ohio winning many awards and the respect and admiration of her co-workers and friends. She was a loving, kind person who will be missed by many.

She was preceded in death by her 1st husband of 49 years, Clesson William Genson; son William George Genson and four brothers.

Surviving her is a devoted husband of 20 years, John Shapard, Sr.; daughter Ruthann LeBlanc and husband Ed of Franklin; son John Shapard II and wife Chris of East Downington, PA; six grandchildren, Bill Genson of Toledo, Ohio, Rick Genson of Farmsville, Ohio, John Michael of Cincinnati, Ohio, Carol McCallum and Cynthia Michael both of Franklin, NC and Jay Shapard III of East Downington, PA. Also surviving are 6 great grandchildren; 3 nieces, Pat Burmen of Florida, Betty Mallory and Cathy Wcislek both of Toledo, Ohio.

Services will be held Sunday, November 13, at 2 p.m. at Macon Funeral Home, Franklin. Rev. Al Beck and Rev. Vic Greene will officiate. A celebration of her life will follow at Bethel Methodist Church in Franklin.

Memorial donations may be made to the Angel Hospice Foundation, PO Box 815, Franklin, NC 28744.

Macon Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Online condolences available @www.maconfuneralhome.com