Jo Dane Rhame passed away peacefully in Lexington, Oklahoma, July 7, 2026, at the age of 88. Born August 31, 1937, in the Cottonwood Community of Garvin County, Jo Dane’s life was marked by an enduring commitment to education, a distinguished career and deep connections with her family and community.
Jo Dane’s academic journey began at Hughes High School, where she distinguished herself as a dedicated student. She continued her education at the University of North Texas, earning a bachelor’s degree in education. Always striving to expand her knowledge, Jo Dane pursued further studies at West Texas A&M University, where she earned both a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a master’s degree in business administration. These academic achievements laid a strong foundation for her varied and accomplished professional life.
Throughout her career, Jo Dane excelled in diverse roles, bringing diligence and expertise to each position she held. After starting as an accountant, Jo Dane’s aptitude with numbers and systems led her to work as a computer analyst and programmer—a field in which she demonstrated both technical proficiency and adaptability. Her passion for teaching culminated in her role as a college professor in Texas, where she shared her insights with students for a decade. Later, she became known for her skill as a professional grant writer, a role that allowed her to support many important initiatives.
Jo Dane made her home in several states over the years, including Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas and Colorado. Each place enriched her life, introducing new friends, colleagues and experiences, while her steadfast commitment to her work and community remained constant.
Jo Dane’s memory is cherished by her beloved family. She is survived by her son, Jeffery Hartley and his wife, Kristi, of Littleton, Colorado; her brothers, James Holdsclaw of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Howard Holdsclaw, Jr. of Wooster, Ohio; and her grandsons, Conner Hartley and Tanner Hartley; along with other family members and friends. Their lives have been profoundly shaped by Jo Dane’s guidance, encouragement and unwavering love.
Jo Dane was preceded in death by: husband, Kenneth Rhame; parents, Howard Jackson Holdsclaw and Magnolia (Jenkins) Holdsclaw; brother, WC Holdsclaw; and sister, Loretta Priest.
Professional, accomplished and dedicated, Jo Dane Rhame leaves behind a legacy of integrity, perseverance and service. Her lifelong commitment to learning and her contributions to education, technology and the nonprofit sector will continue to inspire those who knew her.
In lieu of flowers Jo Dane requested that donations be made to: Maysville Cemetery perpetual care fund, c/o Winans Funeral Home, P.O. Box 515, Maysville, Oklahoma, 73057.
Graveside Funeral Services were Monday, July 13, 2026, at Maysville Cemetery under the direction of John W. Williams of Winans Funeral Home in Maysville, Oklahoma. Words of comfort may be sent to the family at winansfuneralhome.com.
