Jo Wierman Koch

Jo Wierman Koch

Jo Wierman Koch, born May 6, 1935, in Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, died peacefully surrounded by family on July 4, 2026.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Thomas Brent Koch; her brother, Jack Flohr Wierman; her sister, Lou Gochenour; her brother-in-law, Louis H. "Pete" Koch; her sister-in-law, JoAnn Koch; and her parents, Dr. John Alexander Wierman and Barbara Francis "Fran" Flohr Wierman.

She is survived by her son, Dr. Michael Brent Koch and his husband, Jamie Ciomperlik, and her daughter, Jennifer Lynn Koch. She is also fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews, including David Gochenour; Janelle Gochenour; grandniece Ana Limerick; Frederick and Walter Koch; Paula Koch Franks; Jan Koch Maloof; and Amie Close.

Jo's early years in Dillsburg laid the foundation for a life of service and curiosity. She graduated from Northern High School in 1953 and went on to earn her nursing degree from Harrisburg Hospital School of Nursing in 1956. Eager to begin her career, she moved to Philadelphia, where she worked at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital from 1956 to 1959.

It was during this period of independence and exploration that Jo embarked on a life-changing journey. In 1959, she traveled to Puerto Rico with a friend, an adventure that led her to meet her future husband, Thomas. They married in 1964 and built a vibrant life together on the island, raising their family there until 1979 and forming lasting friendships while embracing the culture and beauty of their surroundings.

As her children grew, Jo eventually returned to her professional roots. After several years devoted to raising her family, she pursued additional nursing training at Grady Memorial Hospital and resumed her career at Emory University Hospital in the Department of Cardiology. There, she played a role in caring for patients during the hospital's first heart transplant procedures. Following her retirement, she continued to give back by volunteering with the American Heart Association, providing health assessments and blood pressure screenings.

Throughout her life, Jo balanced her dedication to others with a deep appreciation for adventure and the arts. She had a lifelong love of travel and enjoyed playing ALTA tennis, as well as quieter moments spent at home. Together, she and Thomas explored Morocco, rode camels, and spent nights in the desert, went on an African safari, and traveled extensively throughout Europe. They especially cherished bike tours, riverboat trips, and hiking with close friends in Grindelwald, Switzerland. Their shared passion for classical music, particularly opera, led them to become devoted supporters of the Atlanta Symphony, Spivey Hall, and the Emory Schwartz Center for Performing Arts, often attending concerts both locally and abroad. Jo was also an active member of the Druid Hills Civic Association and treasured her home there, where she lived for more than 40 years. Above all, she found joy in her friendships and in time spent with family. Her warmth, adventurous spirit, and devotion to those she loved will be deeply missed.

In keeping with her wishes, no memorial service is planned. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Capstone Hospice in Jo's memory.

Jo Wierman Koch's legacy of love, kindness, and adventure will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew her.