Jo Ann Eleanor Arciola, of Westport, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 after a brief illness, surrounded by her loving family.

Jo Ann was born on February 7, 1947, in Boston, to the late Arthur and Joan Austin. She was a loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, and will be remembered for her kindness, sense of humor, and devotion to family.

Jo Ann worked her entire life, always taking pride in her work and giving her best in everything she did. She found her professional home at Resnick Advisories, where she spent more than 20 years surrounded by colleagues who became like family. Her dedication, integrity, and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she worked with. After two decades of loyal service, she retired with gratitude and pride for all she had accomplished.

Outside of work, Jo Ann had many passions. She was an avid reader who found joy and peace in the pages of a good book, and she loved traveling — discovering new places and creating cherished memories with the people she loved most. Jo Ann also loved to cook, and she found happiness in preparing meals for her family and friends. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and love.

Jo Ann is survived by her devoted husband of 58 years, Sam Arciola, Jr.; her son Sam Arciola III and his wife Kelly; and her two beloved grandsons, Sam Arciola IV (“Sammy Boy”) and Dominic Arciola. She is also survived by her brothers-in-law Carmen Arciola of Florida and Jay Westerhold of Virginia, as well as many loving nieces and nephews, and her faithful dog, Romeo.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Joan Austin; her brother, Edward (Eddie) Austin; her sister, Eleanor “Elley” Westerhold; and her beloved son, Joseph “Joey” Arciola.

Family and friends are invited to a memorial service on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Assumption Cemetery, 73 Greens Farms Road, Westport.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tunnel To Towers Foundation in Jo Ann’s memory online at t2t.org. Condolences in memory of Jo Ann may be left online at hardingfuneral.org

Jo Ann will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, and her warmth, laughter, and love will live on in their hearts forever.