Helen Silence

(From Knell Mortuary)

Helen Jo Silence, 82, Carthage, Missouri, affectionately known as Jo to her friends and family and Nana to her beloved grandchildren, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at the Solace House, Joplin, Missouri. Jo was born on November 1, 1942, in Granby, Missouri, the daughter of the late Fred Hollis Shewmake and Helen Grace (Vance) Shewmake.

Jo was a proud graduate of Granby High School, class of 1960. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to further her education at Joplin Junior College, where she expanded her horizons and prepared for a future of diverse professional contributions. 

Jo married George Pennel, and to this union, had two children; they later divorced. She then married Marshall Keith Silence on March 20, 1983, at the Granby Christian Church, Granby, Missouri. 

Jo dedicated 40 years of service to Talbot Industries, where she excelled primarily as a receptionist, but also held positions in sales, accounting and personnel. Her dedication and work ethic were only matched by her kindness and the warmth she brought into the workplace. Beyond her professional life, Jo was a devout member of The Bridge Christian Church in Carthage, Missouri, where she found great solace and community. Her faith was an integral part of who she was and guided her through the many seasons of her life. She was also a member of the Rainbow Girls and the Order of the Eastern Star in Granby. 

Jo's love for animals shone brightly through her adoration of horses and dogs, companions that brought her immense joy and comfort throughout her years. Her hobbies also included a cherished doll and paper doll collection, which reflected her appreciation for the simpler pleasures in life.

However, it was her family that held the dearest place in Jo's heart. She is survived by her beloved husband of nearly 42 years, Marshall Silence, who stood by her side as a pillar of love and support. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. 

Jo's legacy continues through her daughter, Aimee Kaye Russel (Gene); her son-in-law, Chris Phelps; her grandchildren, Madeline Grace Phelps-Jaworski (Arthur), Isabel Claire Presley (Bryce), Keith Allen Russel, Sarah Nicole Allen (Braylen), and Will Morgan Russel, Brandon Pennel and Kimberly Pennel; her great-grandchildren, Milo James Presley and Dawson Wayne Allen; and many extended family and friends. She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Sammye Jo Phelps; her sons, George Quinton Pennel, and Kevin Schief; and her brother, Jerry Vance Shewmake.

Funeral services will be held at 10 am, Friday, March 14, 2025, at The Bridge, Carthage. The burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Webb City, Missouri. The family will receive friends from 5-7 pm, Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Knell Mortuary, Carthage. Memorial gifts are suggested to Solace House, Joplin, Missouri, in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.