Joann Alta Ely

Jo-Ann Alta (Jelley) Ely, 80, a long-time resident of Hoosick, NY passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Friday October 28, 2022. She was born January 30, 1942, the daughter of the late Gladys (Campbell) Jelley Hall and the late James Jelley, Sr. She married Charles “Chuck” Ely on February 8, 1968. Chuck predeceased her on July 15, 2003. In her earlier years Jo-Ann and her husband owned and operated the Wayside Restaurant and The Country Plus Restaurant and Lounge in Pittstown, NY. They also had the photo and chair concession stands at Lebanon Valley for many years. She retired from Johnson Controls after 20 years. In the early 70’s Jo-Ann and Chuck owned and operated an Arctic Cat dealership where she became an avid snowmobile racer winning several races. Jo-Ann also enjoyed stock car racing at Lebanon Valley Speedway where she not only cheered and supported her husband and brothers but raced the Casper 5 stock car in the first and only Powder Puff Event winning that race. She enjoyed sewing, playing her organ and collecting porcelain dolls. She is survived by her children, Donald (Lisa) of Bennington, VT, Robert (Christine) of Waterford, NY, Charles, Dustin, Timmy (Bridgette) of Hoosick, NY and a daughter, Stacey Pratt. She is also survived by her brothers, James (Prudence) Jelley of Pownal, VT, Lyle (Robin) of Moore, SC, Keith (Fran) of Bennington, VT, Gary (Robin) of North Pownal, VT, Wayne (Heather) of Pittsfield, MA and Derryl Jelley of North Adams, MA; her sisters, Sharon (Bill) Nichols of Pownal, VT, Pamela (Rick) Cuddihy of Hoosick Falls, NY and Cheryl (Don) Nielsen of North Adams, MA. She is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 11 Great Grandchildren and many, many, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother Clarence “Butch” Jelley on May 1, 2020. A private service for the family will be held at the Mahar and Son Funeral Home on Friday November 4, 2022 at 6pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at the American Legion Post 90 in Pownal, VT on Friday November 4 at 7 PM. Committal Services will be held on Saturday November 5, 2022 at 11:00 AM at the Hoosick Rural Cemetery in Hoosick, NY. Guestbook condolences may be made at www.maharandsonfuneralhome.net