Jo Anne Lish

Jo Anne Schmershall Lish
October 1, 1944 – July 1, 2025

Jo Anne Schmershall Lish passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025, in Upland, California, at the age of 80.

Born October 1, 1944, in American Falls, Idaho, to Peter and Warda Schmershall, Jo grew up in that same tight-knit town. After high school, she married Thomas Isaak and moved to Aberdeen, Idaho. Their first two children died as infants, and just a month after welcoming their son Curtis, Thomas passed away unexpectedly. As a young widow and new mother, Jo then became a potato truck driver for Lamb Weston to care for her little family.

In 1966, Jo was set up on a blind date with Gene Lish, a Navy serviceman home on leave. They married later that year and welcomed two daughters, Kristi and Lori. Navy life carried them to posts around the country before they settled in Ridgecrest, California, where they built a lasting home. She and Gene shared 50 years of marriage until his passing in 2016.

For many years, Jo was a homemaker — but her real job seemed to be getting her kids wherever they needed to be. She was active at their schools, led Girl Scouts, and never hesitated to speak up when something needed fixing.

Once her children were grown, Jo worked at the China Lake Child Development Center, starting in the preschool classroom and eventually becoming the preschool supervisor. She loved working with children, and her coworkers became lifelong friends.

Jo was a multiple-time cancer survivor. Though her battles were hard fought, she faced each one with courage and grace. Her experience gave her compassion and empathy for anyone going through the same fight. She volunteered at the local Cancer Society office, guiding patients through insurance and treatment, and she lent her listening ear to anyone who needed it. She also raised thousands of dollars for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, walking year after year in honor of herself and countless others.

She gave her time generously in many ways. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jo served in countless roles — teaching children and adults, leading the women's organization, directing girls' camp, and providing music for worship. She found purpose in serving and was a Christlike example of strength and faith for her family and community.

She was a long-time volunteer with Friends of the Library. She loved an adventure, too — never missing a chance for a family trip. Some of her fondest memories were beach camping in Carpinteria and traveling through Europe with her kids and grandkids. She enjoyed movies, plays, and any excuse to get out of the house if it meant being with those she loved.

In her later years, Jo divided her time between Ridgecrest and Midway, Utah, staying busy with family history work, supporting local theater, and volunteering at Midway Swiss Days.

Jo will be deeply missed, but her life and example will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Jo was preceded in death by her first husband, Thomas Isaak; her second husband, Gene Lish; her children, Barry Isaak and Tomma Lyn Isaak; and her parents, Peter and Warda Schmershall.

She is survived by her loving children, Curtis Isaak (Kathryn), Kristi Beaton (Kelly), and Lori Lish; her beloved grandchildren, Chloe, Liam, and Tomas Isaak; Blake and Isabelle Beaton; and Tiffany Pottorff (Andrew); her great-grandchildren, Ryan Hudson and Zachary and Cameron Pottorff; and her loyal dog, Rosie.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1031 S Norma Street, Ridgecrest, California.