Anyone who knows Mary Jo Moyer would describe her by saying she loved Jesus! Her love for the Lord was the primary reason for her beautiful smile, and her deep belly laugh that exuded the joy that came from a lifetime of trusting Him. Mary Jo's second passion was education. She served as a public educator for well over 20 years as a math and science teacher. Her classroom always had interesting things such as live possums, a skunk, snakes, a monkey, an injured hawk and other living things. Mary Jo invested her passion for learning by also teaching each of her grandchildren through homeschool.

Born in Hill City, KS on October 25, 1934, to her parents Jack Thornton and Oleta Revea (Tuttle) Bearley, she enjoyed her childhood with her older sister Norma Jon and brother Don.

The family spent many years in Grand Junction, CO before moving to Atwood, KS to farm in 1950. Following graduation, Mary Jo Bearley attended Kansas University graduating with a degree in Geology. Later she received her graduate teaching degree at the University of Northern Colorado.

While in Colorado, God blessed Mary Jo with 3 children. Karie Lyn, Jon Thornton(deceased), and Ronnie Wayne. After completing her graduate degree, Mary Jo made her home in Armona, CA where she began her teaching career. In 1985 Mary Jo moved to Portland, OR to pursue her passion for the knowledge of God at Multnomah School of the Bible and Western Theological Seminary.

Following her time in Portland, Mary Jo stayed on the go living for various time frames in Salem, OR, Simla, CO and Washington, KS. Developing the most beautiful flower garden in Colorado, Mary Jo would often be overheard singing hymns while she worked. Many friends and family had memorable conversations while swinging with her on her yard swing.

“Grandma Mary Jo” spent her life pouring into others, especially her family. Her deepest desire was for all to know the saving grace of her Savior Jesus Christ.

At 91, Mary Jo entered heaven on February 1, 2026. 

She is survived by her brother Don Thornton Bearley of Leavenworth, KS, daughter Karie Lynn and husband Bill Beavert of Salem, OR, son Ronnie and wife Becky Moyer of Washington, KS. Grandchildren Jon Tyler Beavert, Katie Jo Beavert, Kristie Ann (Beavert) Kayl and husband Kevin, Kaylee(Moyer) Gregg and husband Wyatt, Annie (Moyer) Kelly and husband Trent, Laramie Jo (Moyer) Sotelo and husband Daniel, great grandchildren Canyon Azariah, Creston Benaniah and soon to be Cascade Shaniah Gregg. 

Preceding her in death are her parents and sister Norma Jon (Bearley) Chapman of Seattle, WA.

Due to several family life changes, a memorial service will be at a future date to be determined.