Jo Nell Seifert

Jo Nell Seifert, 72, of Poplar Bluff, MO passed away on May 17, 2026, at her home in Poplar Bluff, MO.

Jo Nell was born on January 15, 1954, to Thadis and Imogene (Herren) Seifert in Poplar Bluff, MO.

Jo Nell served 39 years for the Poplar Bluff School District, beginning in the 1976/77 school year as an English teacher at PBJHS, then transferring to Poplar Bluff High School the following year to become the speech and debate coach. She also sponsored the PBHS Drama Club, directing over 100 plays. In 1988/89 school year, she founded Thespian Troupe NO. 4379, allowing theater students more opportunities to compete at state and national conferences, bringing home 1,000+ trophies. She was integral in the construction of the Kay Porter Theater and the scope of the project on what is now the Poplar Bluff Middle School campus. While in school, Jo Nell was a majorette for the high school band and taught other kids how to twirl. She later became the cheer-leading sponsor for the varsity squad during her teaching tenure. Her involvement in public education continued directly after her retirement, substitute teaching in surrounding schools over the past decade. Her passion for teaching theater students never ceased as she led a Drama Camp every summer at Three Rivers College. Jo Nell was a member of First Baptist Church, TRC Patron of the Arts, Alpha Delta Kappa Teachers Sorority, Fine Arts Club, and Women's Democrat Club. She also volunteered for Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center and The Margaret Harwell Art Museum. Jo Nell's legacy will live on in the countless lives she has impacted.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, from 11:00am-1:00pm at First Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff, MO.

Funeral services will immediately follow beginning at 1:00 pm with Pastor Brandon Spain officiating. Burial will take place at Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Poplar Bluff, MO

In Lieu of flowers please donate to Three Rivers Patriot of the Arts.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the friends of Jo Nell Seifert. Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com