Jo F. Santen

Jo Frances Santen (nee Kelly), of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away peacefully on 11/01/2026 at the age of 90, surrounded by the love of her family and friends. Her life was a testament to faith, service, and devotion to those she loved.

Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma on November 28, 1935, to Paul and Martha Jane Kelly (Milton), Jo was the beloved younger sister of Helen Schultz (deceased). She spent most of her childhood in Indianapolis, where she attended Ladywood High School. Her compassion for others led her to the nursing program at Cincinnati’s Good Samaritan Hospital. Upon graduating in 1956, she married William L. Santen, M.D. (deceased), her devoted husband and partner for 36 years.

For 63 years, Jo made her home in Delhi Township, where she and Bill lovingly raised six children: Bill (Karen), Mike (Sandy Ritchermeyer), Bob (Carrie Crates), Nancy Boito (Ed) of Harrisburg, PA, Kathy and Mark (Amy). She also adored her many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

After dedicating many years to raising her family, Jo returned to nursing as the Director of Nursing at Neighborhood Healthcare, in Mt. Alburn. A true servant leader, she approached her work with the same compassion and care that defined every aspect of her life. For over 20 years, countless patients and coworkers benefited from her kindness and caring spirit.

In retirement, Jo continued to pour her energy into the people and places she loved. She delighted in bringing family together, spending time with friends and caring for her home with remarkable determination. Whether touching up paint, climbing ladders, or cleaning gutters well into her 80s, she never shied away from hard work. She stood firmly for what was right, served others selflessly, and offered love, encouragement, and wisdom to generations of family and friends.

Though she will be deeply missed, her family takes comfort in the countless memories she created, the values she instilled, and the love she shared so freely. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched and in the family she cherished above all else.

A visitation will take place at Radel Funeral Home (650 Neeb Road) on Tuesday, November 10, 2026 from 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. An 11:30 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, (4026 River Road). In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Good Samaritan Foundation through their online donation page.