April 28, 1951 ~ February 12, 2025
Mary Jo Strong was born on April 28, 1951, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She grew up in Albuquerque and graduated from Highland High School. She then attended Eastern New Mexico University, where she earned a master’s degree in history. It was at ENMU that she made many lifelong friends.
Mary Jo later decided to pursue law school and moved to Nebraska to attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she earned her law degree. While at UNL, she met her husband, Steve. The couple eventually moved to Omaha, where Mary Jo used her law degree in various roles, including private practice, as well as positions at Ameritrade, First National Bank, and PayPal. Through these roles, she also made many dear friends.
She and Steve enjoyed traveling, especially returning to Albuquerque for the International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta.
After Steve passed away in 2012, Mary Jo found joy in reading and spent countless hours creating beautiful crocheted blankets and shawls for family and friends.
Mary Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Don Mallak and Marian Menning; her infant son, Darryl; and her husband, Steve. She is survived by her siblings: Terry Menning (Regina), Le Anne Lynch (Robert), Dan Mallak (Barb), and Jim Menning. She is also survived by her nephews, nieces, and their families: Mike and Emma Jacobsen; Jeremy, Hilary, Hayden, Lane, and Harlynn Mallak; and Taylor, Teagan, Tavinho, and Thiago Archuleta.
CELEBRATION OF MARY JO'S LIFE: 3:00 pm, Friday, March 14th, 2025 at Braman Mortuary (Millard Chapel)
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the Nebraska Humane Society, CLICK HERE to make a donation.
Braman Mortuary and Cremation Services
6505 S. 144 St. Omaha, NE 68137 / 402-895-3400
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