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To all of her nieces and nephews, she was much more than an aunt – she was a cherished grandmother figure whose presence brought unconditional love.

Joanna McNary (Jodie), 82, a lifelong resident of Denton, Texas, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2026, at Texas Health Hospital in Denton, Texas, surrounded by her loving family. Now, she is at the feet of her Lord and Savior in heaven (Luke 23:43 “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”).

Born on Wednesday, October 20, 1943, in Denton, Texas, to the late Hugh Bert McNary and Lula Mavis Purdy McNary, Jodie graduated from Denton High School in 1961 and went on to work at General Telephone in Denton, where she met many lifelong friends; she retired from the phone company after many years of dedicated service. In her later years, she worked at Dillard’s on the docks until retiring, but she continued to be known around the store, as she used her special discount to keep all her nieces and nephews constantly spoiled with treats. She spent her final healthy years caring for people in a home health care setting, where she was beloved by the families she served.

Jodie loved fiercely and devoted all her attention to the things she loved. First and foremost, she loved the Lord. She was baptized at a young age at Faith Memorial in Denton and was a longtime member of Cooper Creek Church. Secondly, she loved her family. Although she never had children of her own, she treated all of her family like her own kids and grandkids. To all of her nieces and nephews, she was much more than an aunt – she was a cherished grandmother figure whose presence brought unconditional love. She was a very generous person. She never spent money on herself, and, while she didn’t always have a lot of money, the money she did have was spent on helping someone or just making someone smile. Besides the Lord & her family, she loved animals; she treasured her dogs, Harley & Special, and even had a pet racoon.

One of Jodie’s greatest gifts was her ability to turn everyday encounters into lifelong friendships. Whether she was at one of the many doctor’s offices, the bank, Cracker Barrel, the local shell station, or even at the pecan lady’s place. She remembered names, asked about families, and genuinely cared about the people she met. She looked forward to seeing these friends often (and showing them pictures or videos of the newest babies… whether they be great grandnieces/nephews, calves, goats, or puppies!)

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One of Jodie’s greatest gifts was her ability to turn everyday encounters into lifelong friendships.

She lived her life with quiet strength, steadfast faith, and a servant’s heart. She found comfort in God’s promises and demonstrated His love through kindness and generosity. Those who knew Jodie will remember her faithful prayers, the genuine interest she took in the lives of others, and her generosity. Though her earthly presence will be deeply missed, her family rejoices in knowing she is now at peace in the presence of her Savior. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

Jodie is survived by her sister, Oleta Trapp of Denton; brother, Mickey McNary (Sharon) of Denton; nieces “Mo” Marty Crider (Terry) of Denton, “Mike” Michelle Sons-Choate (Kelly) of Krum, Cassie McNary of Krum; great-nieces and nephews “Rosebud” Tiffany Murdock (Josh) of Krum, “Sweet pea” Haleigh Harrison (Tyler) of Krum, “The boss” Jordan Crider (Megan) of Krum, Justin Sons of Krum, Colton Hill of Krum, Landon Kerner of Denton, Bristol McNary of Denton; great-great nieces and nephews “Legs” Brooke & “Bugs” Blake Murdock of Krum, “Joker” Hudson & “Coco” Everleigh Harrison of Krum, “Bubbles” Vada & “J Jr.” Vander Crider of Krum, Emma Sons of Denton.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Hugh Bert McNary & Mavis Purdy McNary; and her brother-in-law Russell Trapp.

Services will be held on Wednesday, August 5, at DeBerry Funeral Home in Denton, Texas, starting with visitation at 9:30 AM and the funeral at 10:30 AM, followed by a graveside service at Roselawn Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers will be Jordan Crider, Josh Murdock, Tyler Harrison, Blake Murdock, Hudson Harrison, Colton Hill, Landon Kerner, and Charlie Hammond.

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Her family rejoices in knowing she is now at peace in the presence of her Savior.

Jodie’s memory will be honored by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love – a testament to a life well-lived in the town she always called home.