Mary Jo Heffron 84, of Spokane, Washington, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2026. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and artist.

Mary Jo was born in Los Angeles CA, to Josephine and Robert Gugisberg. She graduated from California State University, Los Angeles, and went on to dedicate more than 50 years to teaching, both as an elementary school teacher and as a Catholic CCD teacher.

In July 1969, Mary Jo married Joseph Heffron. They later moved from Los Angeles to Washington and settled in Tekoa, where they lived for 48 years before moving to Spokane.

Mary Jo had a lifelong love of art and teaching. She volunteered at the local elementary school where she taught art and brought history to life through creative projects and hands-on activities. Her faith and love for the Lord was also an important part of her life. She was active in her church, teaching children and youth and volunteering for special events held at the church.

In her free time, Mary Jo enjoyed gardening, baking, sewing and quilting, and creating her handmade egg ornaments, which became treasured gifts for family and friends. Mary Jo is survived by her husband Joseph Heffron, brother Bob Gugisberg, 3 children (Bob, Susan and Kathleen), 5 grandchildren (Jessie, Richard, Ashley, Isaac, Lily and Zoe), 6 great grandchildren and 9 nieces/nephews

A Funeral Mass will be held at our Lady of Fatima Oct 5th at 11am.