Mary Jo Colle

Mary Jo Colle, born on January 23, 1942, in Kansas City, Missouri to Joseph Bernard Nick and Mary Elizabeth (Tierney) Nick, passed away unexpectedly on April 20, 2025, in Independence, Missouri.

She was a devout Catholic and grew up attending Catholic schools, graduating from Cardinal Glennon High School. She carried the lessons learned in her formative years into her adult life. Mary Jo began her career at the Truman Library, serving as Harry S. Truman’s secretary. She retired after more than 30 years of dedicated service, during which her meticulous attention to detail and steadfast professionalism stood as a true testament to her remarkable work ethic.

In addition to her career, Mary Jo was deeply committed to helping her community. She volunteered for the St. Mary's Outreach Food Pantry, where she generously offered her time and compassion to those in need. Her hobbies included spending time with her family, enjoying crossword puzzles, immersing herself in reading, watching reality tv and cheering on the Chiefs.

Mary Jo is survived by her loving daughter, Kathleen "Katie" Barker (Jared Smith), and her cherished granddaughter, Ava Barker. She also leaves behind three devoted sisters, Cathy Sherill, Patty Willis (Steve), and Margy Allen (Don), and many nieces and nephews who will remember her with love and affection. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Bernard Nick and Mary Elizabeth Nick.

A visitation to honor Mary Jo will take place on May 3, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a Memorial Mass at 11:00 AM, held at St. Mark Catholic Church (3736 S Lee's Summit Rd, Independence, Missouri, 64055. Family and friends are welcome to gather in remembrance of a beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Contributions can be made in Mary Jo's honor to St. Mary's Outreach Food Pantry.