Berneta (Jo) Earl Obituary (1929 - 2026)

Berneta "Jo" Earl, of Clarkston, Washington, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2026 , leaving behind a legacy of love, courage, kindness, and adventure. She was a beacon of strength and compassion throughout her life, touching the hearts of all who knew her. Her spirited personality, quick wit, and infectious laughter brought joy wherever she went, and she had a remarkable gift for making people feel valued, welcomed, and loved. Jo lived a full and adventurous life. She embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm, whether she was traveling, dancing, spending time with horses, or simply enjoying the company of family and friends. She was the heart of her family, her greatest pride and joy, offering unwavering love, support, and encouragement to the generations who were blessed to call her mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and friend. Jo's kindness and generosity knew no bounds. She faced life's challenges with grace and courage, serving as an inspiration to those around her. Her love was not measured by grand gestures but by the countless everyday acts of care, compassion and selflessness that defined her life. Throughout her life, Jo worked in a variety of roles that reflected her strong work ethic and dedication. She worked as a waitress, managed a theater, worked in medical records and served as a rural postal carrier. She concluded her career as a Technician at Potlatch Forest Corporation in Lewiston, Idaho, retiring in 1994. In every position she held, Jo was known for her diligence, thoughtfulness and commitment to excellence. Jo is survived by her children: Randy Wiggins, Rae Jean (Loring) Larsen, J. (Katrina) Wiggins, Stan (Joanne) Wiggins, Shawn Wiggins, David Wiggins, her cherished bonus children: Alison (Gaylord) Newbry, Brad Earl, and Sandy (Brad) Belmondo. She also leaves behind her brothers: Ron Ruddell, Larry (LuAnn) Ruddell, and Terry (Linda) Ruddell; 23 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Howard Earl; her daughter, Dianne (Adrian) Lane; her parents, Harry and Neta Ruddell; her sister, Roberta (Russell and Wayne) Bonnalie Ayers; her brother, Dell (Joanne) Ruddell; and other loved ones who welcomed her home. Jo's memory will live on in the stories shared, the lessons she taught and the love she gave so freely. While her family mourns her passing, they celebrate a life well lived and a woman whose courage, compassion and adventurous spirit left an enduring mark on everyone she met. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 18, at 2:00 p.m. at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 1115 13th Street, Clarkston, WA. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and celebrate Jo's life. A reception will follow the service. The family invites those who knew and loved Jo to share memories and photographs on her memorial page. Through these remembrances, may we continue to honor and celebrate the extraordinary life of Berneta "Jo" Earl. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association or to the charity of your choice in her memory. *"Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard but always near. Still loved, still missed and very dear." - Alex MacLean, Grave Situation