Joanne (Jo) Gribbon (nee Latham)

Jo had a strong faith, a big heart, and a beautiful singing voice. She was kind, and loved people without reservation. She was loved by all who knew her. As a minister in the Anglican Church, she impacted many people in the parishes in which she served faithfully - Nelson, North West Christchurch, and Hanmer Springs. As a friend to many within the church, and outside the church, she was always there for those who needed her.  She was a lovely wife.

Obituary

Jo Gribbon (nee Latham) of Christchurch/Hanmer Springs passed away peacefully on Friday, 22 November 2024 at the age of 67 years - a mere two years after her diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

She will be lovingly remembered by her husband Brent Gribbon; her brothers and sisters in law Dave and Megan, Steve, Greg and Annetta, and Kathy; her nephews and their partners Sam and Lucy, Rowan and Kate, Jackson and Bridie, and William and Sarah; and her grand-nieces Florence, Holly, and Rose. She was a much loved and cherished daughter of the late Bill and Joyce Latham.

We owe our thanks and appreciation to the doctors and staff of Christchurch Hospital, Hanmer Health Centre, Belfast North Mediqual Doctors, and Nurse Maude for their compassion and care; and to Jo's many friends and parishioners who showed outstanding love and support during this time.

Timeline

Gallery

Memory wall

February 17, 2025

Ach, Jo! What the heck? Tis too sad that we lived in different islands although we were as comfortable as old shoes when we did cross paths. Those heady, rich days at St Paul's, Papanui, YAF, music, Harewood Rd, clowning - you inspired me with your ability to be yourself even in the face of some stuffy Anglicanism. I'm very glad you found a worthy fellow in the end, and very sad for both of you that you didn't get to grow old together.
Thank you, dear woman. You have made the world a better place, no doubt. Love always, P.

Penelope Merton

December 10, 2024

On behalf of the Hurunui Ministers' Association, we send you our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Reverend Joanne Latham. We were very sad and shocked to hear the news.

We, however, celebrate with the family and friends knowing that Joanne is now in the loving arms of the Lord Jesus Christ who loves her the most.

May you draw comfort, strength and peace as you walk together during this very difficult time.

Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.”

With much love and blessings in Christ

Garry & Lola Love

December 6, 2024

Jo.

So terribly shocked and sad to hear of your passing. Such a beautiful person and someone I am honored to have known for 17 years. We will miss you.

Jakilene

December 5, 2024

I am so grateful for meeting and getting to know you, Jo, and for the time I spent with you in Sumner. Your big heart, kindness, sincerity, sense of fun and love for Jesus impacted me in a deep and lasting way, and my life is so much the richer. Love and grateful thanks, Liz x

Liz Mattocks (neé Bradshaw)

December 4, 2024

Josephine without your lovely presence our lives and communities will be less light, positive and rich. I will always treasure the fun and silly times we had together and sharing our cancer journeys. Your spirit and faith remained so opotmistic but yet pragmatic setting a great example to those of us less weak. As I go down Grassmere Street I will pause and remember you. At peace - love always, Susan X

Susan Peake

December 1, 2024

We are so sorry to hear that Joanne has passed. She was a wonderful friend and supporter of our work in Myanmar and in touch until very recently. She will be sorely missed by many. Love to your family from us all at Circuit International.

Stuart Corlett

November 28, 2024

A lifetime of faith, fabulous friendships, faux pas, frolicking, flatulence, fun, families, forbearance, flappers, frocks, festivities, and finding love, dearest Jo.
For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then we will see face to face.
Til we see you again . . . with all loving and thankful hearts. Mandy.

Amanda Lee Clinton Neil

Family tree

Will Latham

Joyce Latham

Brent Gribbon

Dave Latham

Steve Latham

Greg Latham

‹

›

Dave Latham

Steve Latham

Greg Latham

‹

›

Brent Gribbon

‹

›

Joanne (Jo) Gribbon (nee Latham)

Service