Jo Ann Burns Hendren

Jo Ann Burns Hendren, 74, passed away on Tuesday morning, October 13, at home after a long illness. Jo was a devoted mother and wife, a supportive friend, an advocate to animals, a seeker of knowledge and understanding, and a creative independent thinker. Often described as “a character,” Jo lived a life of integrity and honesty and brought a unique approach to political and social activism in her community. A world traveler, Jo lived and raised her children in Switzerland before settling back in Maryville in 1976. Jo founded Hideaway Cottages in 1979, the first rental cabin business in Townsend, and managed the business successfully for 27 years. She was instrumental in guiding the controlled development of Townsend as the peaceful side of the Smokies. She co-developed Hideaway Hollow, a residential development in Townsend. A member of the Tennessee Travel and Tourism Board in the 1980s, Jo supported the Foothills Land Conservancy and the Friends of the Smokies. In addition, she was a member of the Kiwanis Club in Maryville in recent years before her illness. Jo is survived by her devoted husband of 33 years, James E. (Chick) Hendren, retired engineer and former state legislator. She is also survived by her three children and their families: Joel B. Southern of Knoxville, and his wife Wendy and sons Emerson and Quinn; Myra A. Southern of Farragut; and Robert Neil Southern Jr. of Memphis and his wife Kathy. Born in Maryville in 1935, Jo was the daughter of Sidney W. Burns (Everett High School Principal) and Myra H. Burns (Director of the Blount County Department of Welfare). Jo graduated from Maryville High School and attended Virginia Intermont College and the University of Tennessee, where she majored in Home Economics. Jo was well known for her cooking and interior design skills. In lieu of a traditional funeral service, Jo's life will be celebrated at a gathering at her beloved cabin, Owl's Hoot, on Sunday, November 1. Friends and acquaintances are welcome to come by and visit with Jo's family and share memories of her, anytime between 2:00 and 6:00 at 139 Black Mash Hollow Road in Townsend. For directions and any questions, email Joel Southern at joel.southern@gmail.com. Instead of flowers, the family would welcome donations in Jo's memory to the Foothills Land Conservancy or the Friends of the Smokies. Or the next time you see a wildflower or the vibrant fall colors or a mountain stream, just smile and think of Jo. McCammon-Ammons-Click Funeral Home, Maryville, 982-6812. www.mccammonammonsclick.com