JoVanna Hilber Tawney

JoVanna Hilber Tawney, known fondly to many as "Jo," passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, in Bel Air, Maryland, surrounded by the comforting presence of her devoted family. Born on December 19, 1947, in Baltimore, Maryland, Jo's life was a vibrant tapestry woven with love, laughter, and an indomitable spirit.

From the very beginning, Jo carried a spark that illuminated every room she entered. Raised as JoVanna Spessato, she grew into a woman full of life, marked by her sharp wit and fearless honesty. Jo never hesitated to deliver a clever comeback, always seasoned with warmth and an unmistakable twinkle in her eye. Her personality was magnetic, drawing friends and family close to share in her joy.

Professionally, Jo dedicated an impressive forty years to Ober, Kaler, Grimes & Shriver, where she managed records with meticulous care and forged friendships that would endure a lifetime. Her colleagues remember her not only for her commitment but for her storytelling—a gift she wielded to charm and enliven any gathering.

Jo's life was rich with passions. She was a collector of precious jewelry, an avid reader of mystery novels, and a shrewd hunter for the best deals at Macy’s. Cards were her arena; she adored the game and could often be found testing her luck at the casino poker machines, her competitive spirit shining through. Yet, it was her family that remained her proudest accomplishment and the center of her world. Jo excelled as the heart of family life, orchestrating dinners, events, and holiday celebrations with a pride and skill that created memories treasured for generations.

Jo’s family was vast and cherished. She is survived by her sons, Sean Hilber and Del Hilber, along with daughter-in-laws, Karen Hilber and Danielle Michalak. Her older brother Frank Spessato and sister-in-law Mary Spessato also remain pillars of support to the family. Jo’s grandchildren—Katie, Gracie, Alexander, and Ryan Hilber—were constant sources of joy, joined in this circle of love by honorary granddaughters Kelsey Pintzow and Elena and Annalise Michalak. Though her marriage to Tony Hilber ended, the bond of family endured firmly. 

She was predeceased by her beloved husband Bill Tawney, her father Rudy Spessato, mothers Wilma and Mary Agnes Spessato, and sister Pat Fearrington and her brother-in-law John Fearrington. Their memories live on in the stories Jo shared and the legacy she leaves behind.

After a courageous battle with cancer spanning eight years, Jo departed this world surrounded by her loved ones. The sorrow of her passing is tempered by the indelible mark she imprinted on the hearts of all who knew her. Her life was a celebration of family, friendship, and the pursuit of a winning hand.

Services to honor Jo’s extraordinary life will be held on March 28, 2026, at Kaczorowski Funeral Home, P.A., located at 1201 Dundalk Ave, Baltimore, MD 21222. The visitation is scheduled from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by the funeral service from 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM.

JoVanna “Jo” Hilber Tawney’s story is one of vivacity, love, and unwavering dedication. Her wit, warmth, and generosity will echo in family dinners, card games, and every gathering enlivened by her spirit. She leaves behind a legacy as brilliant and precious as the jewelry she so adored—a true gem of a woman whose light will never fade.