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Jo Merle Saban, age 82, known as Ommy to her grandchildren and many others, passed away at Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center on Monday, July 2, 2018.
Born Oct. 19, 1935, in Bowie, Texas to Royce B. and Lois E. Wesson, Jo Merle moved to Miami, Arizona as a young child and was an avid athlete and scholar, participating in multiple sports and leading several clubs at Miami High School before graduating in 1954. After high school, she married her sweetheart, John Saban. The newlyweds moved several times, but eventually returned to the Globe-Miami area where they quickly settled in. Jo Merle continued to be the life of many parties, and could often be found on the golf course, tennis courts, or bowling alley as she maintained her competitive spirit. A lifelong learner, Jo Merle continued her education at Lamson College and Eastern Arizona College.
Jo Merle was employed at Inspiration Consolidated Copper Company before becoming a full-time mother. Known to many as the neighborhood mom, she knew no stranger and impacted all who crossed her path.
Jo Merle was proceeded in death by her parents and sister Wynell Bonner. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, John Saban; son Steve Saban; daughter Carrie Guerena (Mark); grandchildren Mark, Tiera and Darin Guerena and Karlee Jo Jaramillo; great-grandson Jace Guerena; and her beloved cats Mimi and Mo.
Per her request, services will not be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are welcomed and may be donated to the Cobre Valley Center for the Arts, 101 N Broad St, Globe, Ariz. 85501.
