Jo Ellen Carlisle, 84, of Gulfport, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2026, at Driftwood Nursing Home.

Jo was born on October 13, 1941, in Missouri to the late Melvin and Thedaray Currah. She attended Petal High School, where she was a proud member of the school band.

In 1959, Jo opened her dance studio and began what would become an extraordinary career spanning more than 50 years. She taught dance and gymnastics to generations of children throughout the Pine Belt, leaving a lasting impact on countless families. A devoted member of Dance Masters of America for more than 55 years, Jo’s passion for tap dancing, gymnastics, and teaching was evident in every student she inspired. To many, she was more than an instructor—she was a mentor, role model, and lifelong friend.

Beyond the studio, Jo found her greatest joy in spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She also had a special love for her dogs and cats, who brought her endless companionship. She was a faithful member of Green’s Creek Baptist Church in Petal, Mississippi.

Jo is survived by her daughter, Theda Carlisle Nagy of Petal, Mississippi; her son, Maurice Carlisle of Petal, Mississippi; and her beloved grandchildren, Blake Nagy, Makenzie Nagy, and Madison Nagy. Son in Law Steve M Nagy of Petal, Mississippi

She was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Thedaray Currah.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 2, at Forrest Funeral Home from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 6:00 p.m. Reverend Mike Routon of Green’s Creek Baptist Church will officiate. Burial will follow at Forrest Memorial Gardens in Petal.

Memorial donations may be made to Southern Pines Animal Shelter in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, in honor of Jo’s lifelong love of animals.

Jo’s legacy lives on through the thousands of students she taught, the lives she touched, and the family she loved so deeply. She will be remembered for her grace, her generosity, her unwavering dedication to children, and the joy she brought to everyone fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.