Jo James

Jo Ann James, 70, of Atlantic, Iowa, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2026, at Atlantic Specialty Care, surrounded by her loving family, as she was called home to the Lord.

Jo Ann was born on August 18, 1956, in Audubon, Iowa, to Melvin Lee, Sr. and Virginia Alberta (Swolley) Petersen.  She graduated from Exira High School in 1974. Throughout her life, Jo was known for her determination, strong will, independence, and willingness to work hard. She took great pride in caring for her family and maintaining a clean, organized home.

She provided in-home daycare for several years before working at DeLongs. She later found her calling in the trucking industry, becoming an owner-operator with Jo James Trucking. Her CB handle was "Powderpuff," later shortened to "Puff." After retiring from trucking, Jo could not sit still for long and began driving for SWITA in Atlantic. She continued working until she was diagnosed with dementia.

Jo was the proud mother of four children: Stacy Van Aernam, John Bengel III, Christopher Bengel, and Cody James. Family was at the center of Jo's life. She enjoyed sharing meals, gathering with loved ones, and making sure everyone felt cared for. When her children were young, Sundays were often spent at the farm with family, enjoying cookies and coffee while listening to her father tell his familiar stories. These simple gatherings became treasured memories.

Christmas was Jo's favorite holiday. She loved spoiling her family with gifts she purchased or lovingly made throughout the year. She especially enjoyed preparing meals and homemade treats and bringing everyone together to celebrate. Her love was expressed through the thoughtful things she did for others, and her family will always remember the warmth and care she gave so freely.

Jo is survived by her children, Stacy (Allen) Van Aernam, John Bengel III, Chris Bengel, and Cody James; grandchildren, Brittaney (Corey) Elliott, Austin (Allyson) Van Aernam, Allen Van Aernam Jr., Curclund Van Aernam, Stellah Van Aernam, Nella Ruth Van Aernam, Ellanor Mable Van Aernam, Boyce Truman Van Aernam, Marah (Robby) Bodine, Carter Bengel, Taylor (Derick) Seaton, Rylee Bengel, Brinley Bengel, Taliya James, Tayzun James, Talon James, and Tayleigh James; and great-grandchildren, Clair, Charlie, Corttaney, Chloe, and Cacy Elliott, Allis and Annabella Van Aernam, Raylan, Zealand, and Wesley Bodine, and Tate and Hadlee Seaton.

She is also survived by her siblings, Melvin Petersen Jr. (Linda), Rodney Petersen (Mona), David Petersen (Jodi), Scott Petersen, Judy Sandbothe (Bill), Kenny Petersen (Amy), and Dennis Petersen (Karla), along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Virginia Petersen; her brother, Larry Petersen; and her niece, Carlee Petersen.

Though her family's hearts are broken, they find comfort knowing Jo is no longer struggling and has been called home to the Lord. Her hands, which worked so hard throughout her life, are now at rest. Her love and legacy will continue through the generations.

Rest peacefully, Mama. You were loved more than words can say and will be missed more than you will ever know. Your memory will live on in every family gathering, every Christmas, and every story. Until we meet again, we love you the MOSTEST!

Visitation with the family present will begin at 9:30 a.m., Friday, October 2nd at the First United Methodist Church in Atlantic followed by a funeral service at 10:30 a.m. Please feel free to wear jeans and tennis shoes to the funeral. That's what Jo would have wanted.

Burial will be in the Atlantic Cemetery. The family invites you to join them for lunch and sharing of memories in the church fellowship hall following services at the cemetery.

Roland Funeral Service is caring for Jo’s family and her arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.