Mary Jo Kindt

Mary Jo Kindt passed away on July 29, 2026, at the age of 82.
Born on March 22, 1944, in Sioux Center, Iowa, to James and Maria DeWit, Mary Jo discovered a love of music at an early age. That passion became the foundation of a lifetime devoted to singing, teaching, and inspiring others. She earned a Master of Fine Arts in Vocal Performance from Indiana University and shared her gifts generously throughout her career.

Mary Jo taught voice and piano at Appalachian State University and Lenoir-Rhyne University, where she encouraged generations of students to develop both their talent and confidence. She also served as choir director at Saint Luke's Episcopal Church, where she was a devoted member whose faith and love of music enriched the congregation for many years.

Beyond music, Mary Jo found joy in books, lifelong learning, and friendship. She was an active member of several book clubs, served on the Board of the Western Watauga Library, and treasured the time she spent with her Needlepoint Club. Whether through music, literature, or conversation, she delighted in bringing people together and sharing the things she loved.

Mary Jo was preceded in death by her first husband, Dennis Johnston; her second husband, Allen Kindt; and her daughter, Erin Johnston.

She is survived by her sons, Richard Johnston (Leanne) and Michael Kindt (Lisa); her daughter, Maria Kindt (Mike); and her beloved grandchildren, Tristan Johnston, Winter Kindt, Canyon Kindt and Oliver Blain, her brother Mark DeWit of Holstein, Iowa, and his daughters, Angela and Chelsea, her sister Chris (Robert) Keitges, and their son Damon, and her brother James (Mary Ann) DeWit and their children Ben and Sarah, and numerous great nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.

Private services will be held by the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Western Watauga Library or to the Erin Johnston Scholarship at Watauga High School.

Online condolence may be made to www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com

Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Kindt Family.

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