Jo Alice Bennett Obituary: Delray Beach Community Remembers a Remarkable Life

A life defined by compassion, professional achievement, family devotion, and a passion for the arts

Jo Alice Bennett, affectionately known as Jo, passed away peacefully at her home in Delray Beach, Florida, on October 28, 2026, at the age of 79. She was surrounded by her loving husband, Ronald D. Rocheleau, and her dedicated caregiver, Sandra Morris.

Her passing marks the loss of a woman remembered for her warmth, intelligence, strong sense of justice, and remarkable ability to build meaningful connections with people. Through her professional accomplishments, family relationships, friendships, and support for important social causes, Jo made a lasting impression on those whose lives she touched.

Born on November 27, 1946, in Nashville, Tennessee, Jo was the daughter of Jean and Joel Bennett. Following the tragic death of her father when she was just 15 months old, her mother moved with her to Asheville, North Carolina, where Jo spent much of her childhood and attended high school.

Her early experiences helped shape her understanding of fairness and equality. One particularly defining experience came during her participation in Girls State, where she confronted the injustice of legally enforced racial discrimination. This strengthened the sense of justice that remained an important part of her character throughout her life.

Personal Details

Death and Obituary Details

Education and Professional Career

Jo attended Duke University, where she earned a degree in English literature. Her education and intellectual curiosity helped shape a career that eventually established her as a respected professional in human resources and executive search.

Her early professional experience included positions with companies such as Mitsubishi, A&W, and United Brands, associated with Chiquita bananas. In 1990, she joined Battalia-Winston, a leading executive search firm, where she became a partner.

Jo was known for her ability to understand organizations, identify leadership talent, and connect companies with suitable executive candidates. Her professional expertise also brought her into contact with journalists across television, radio, and print media.

She became particularly recognized for communicating the findings of Battalia-Winston’s annual Holiday Party Survey, which examined workplace sentiment and offered insight into corporate culture.

Her career reflected her determination, confidence, and commitment to advancing opportunities for women in the corporate world.

Family, Marriage, and Personal Life

Family remained central to Jo’s life. She was the proud mother of Kevin Kubarych, born in 1974, and took great pride in his academic career as a chemistry professor.

She also shared a close relationship with her daughter-in-law, Jennifer Ogilvie, a physics professor, whom she deeply admired. Her two grandchildren, Amelie and Landon, brought her immense joy, and she treasured spending time with them, particularly reading stories together.

Jo later met Ronald D. Rocheleau, a former Navy pilot and businessman, in the early 1990s. Their relationship grew into a lasting partnership, and they married in 1996. They shared many years together, travelling internationally, enjoying the arts, and opening their home to animals in need.

Their life together was filled with family gatherings, friendships, cultural experiences, and a shared appreciation for the things that made everyday life meaningful.

A Woman With Many Interests

Jo’s interests extended well beyond her professional achievements. She enjoyed baseball, ballet, theatre, museums, literature, cooking, and travel.

Although she maintained an enduring connection to Duke University and its Blue Devils, her sporting interests also included the Boston Red Sox and New York Mets.

She was particularly passionate about the arts in New York City, regularly enjoying exhibitions at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Broadway productions, and smaller theatrical performances.

Jo was also an accomplished cook who loved bringing people together. Her Thanksgiving gatherings became memorable occasions for family and friends, reflecting her generosity, hospitality, and ability to make people feel welcome.

She and Ronald also shared a love for animals, welcoming several cats and dogs into their home throughout their years together.

Funeral and Celebration of Life Arrangements

According to the family’s obituary published through Lorne & Sons Funeral Home, a celebration of Jo Alice Bennett’s life will take place in the coming months.

The family has indicated that those wishing to participate virtually or attend in person can contact her son, Kevin Kubarych, for further information.

Specific dates, times, and venue details have not yet been announced.

Disclaimer

This obituary is based on information published by Lorne & Sons Funeral Home and details provided in the family’s memorial announcement. The cause of Jo Alice Bennett’s death has not been publicly disclosed. Funeral and celebration-of-life arrangements may be updated when additional information becomes available.