Josephine Bernice Campbell (née Ward) born – June 21, 1940, passed away on Friday, July 4, 2025, in Victoria, BC — the city where she was born into a large and loving family, guided by her parents, Walter and Alice Ward (née Clear).
Jo, as she was affectionately known, began her working life at a grocery store on Cook Street. It was there, in 1960, that she met her future husband, Alex Campbell. They married in 1961 and went on to have three children—first two boys, then completed their family with a daughter in 1967.
Jo and Alex left their hometown, raising their young family in Port Alberni, Surrey, and Ladysmith before returning to Victoria in 1977. After selling the 49th Grocery in Ladysmith, they opened the first Thrifty Foods in Fairfield alongside partners Ernie and Carol Skinner—launching not just a successful business venture, but a lifelong friendship.
Jo quickly became a beloved presence among staff and customers alike. She was always ready with a big smile, a great story, and her legendarily generous heart. She cherished her Thrifty Foods family and made it a point to truly connect with people, one-on-one. During the Thrifty era, everyone looked forward to Jo’s store visits – and perhaps even more to her shenanigans at the annual Christmas party.
Jo was part of a very close-knit family, and she, Alex, and their children spent many joyful days at her parents’ home on Scott Street—often surrounded by her siblings, cousins, and lifelong family friends. The house may have been small, but it was always bursting with people, laughter, and love. Everyone was welcome, and there was never a shortage of good times.
This deep love of family was always at the centre of Jo’s heart. She was a proud and devoted mother and grandmother, and her grandchildren were truly the light of her life. Whether it was sleepovers at the house, adventures on the boat, or weekends at the lake, Jo made sure every moment was filled with joy and fun—so much so that the kids were never in a hurry to go home.
Though Jo was always a nervous flyer, she overcame her fear to enjoy many travel adventures with Alex. Together, they explored far-off places like Russia, China, France, England, and Portugal—and especially loved their time in Mexico. She was just as uneasy on the water but again pushed past her fears to enjoy both sailing and powerboating.
Jo also had a gift for gathering people. She loved a good tea party—any excuse to bring friends together over delicious food, warm conversation, and plenty of laughter. No one ever left one of Jo’s gatherings hungry, thirsty, or without a smile.
True to her generous spirit, Jo dedicated time to charity and volunteer work, quietly supporting countless causes across Victoria. She was a deeply generous donor, willing to give where help was needed. One of her greatest sources of pride was the Alex & Jo Campbell Centre for Health and Wellness at Camosun College. Jo not only helped fund the building itself but also established annual bursaries for nursing students—investing in the future of compassionate care. Many other charities benefited from her kindness, whether through heartfelt donations or her famously fierce auction bidding.
Jo spent the last two years at St. Charles Manor, where she was cared for with kindness and compassion. Her family extends heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff who supported our much-loved Mom. Jo especially enjoyed the times when Stephanie Greaves would visit to sing many of her favourite songs – these moments brought her joy.
Jo leaves behind her beloved children: Alex (Elsie), Lorne (Nancy), and Bonnie (Frank); her cherished grandchildren: Pelle (Genevieve), Haden (Gabby), Sophie (Nicolai), Shea, Nick, Alison, Kayleigh, and Connor. She is also survived by her siblings: Terry (Diane), Cathy (Bob), Nancy (Wayne), and Penny (Peter), as well as an extended circle of cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends—too many to name, but each held a special place in her heart.
She loved deeply and was deeply loved.
A private family service will be held with a celebration of life to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Alex and Jo Centre for Health and Wellness at Camosun College, in honour of Jo’s enduring legacy of care and generosity. https://webservices.camosun.ca/foundation/memorial-gifts/
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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24 Responses
It is with profound sadness that we hear of the passing of Jo. I, like thousands of others, had the privilege of working with the Campbell family at Thrifty Foods. Alex Sr. and Jo were very proud of their lifelong business accomplishments but their family was what they were most proud of. My deepest sympathy to Bonnie, Lorne, Alex Jr. and families. May Jo rest in peace now with Alex Sr.
Grant & Bonny Burke
I was sad to hear of the passing of Jo I feel a good idea for her legacy and Thriftys legacy a book should be written to remember the history of Alex and Jo
Jo was a very special human being. She invariably made the lives she touched a little brighter. Her husband’s business brought us together, but it was their family values that advanced a lifelong friendship that will always be remembered and cherished. My condolences to Alex Jr., Lorne, Bonnie and their respective families.
I was so saddened to hear about Jo. My condolences to Alex, Lorne, Bonnie and family.
It was a wonderful time to be part of the Thrifty family starting in the early days. I still remember meeting your mom and making the mistake of calling her Mrs. Campbell and the the look she gave me. No, she said call me Jo. That was the start of a wonderful friendship. I could write a book of all the wonderful and crazy times we all had over the years. Her kindness and caring for everyone was an inspiration. She made everyone feel special and I’m so grateful to have had Jo and Mr.C in my life. I still miss Mr. C. and now Jo.
My heart will never be the same…
It was a hot August day many summers ago and we had just arrived in Victoria having moved from out of province. With a 3- and 5-year old in tow I planned a lengthy grocery shop as we had to replenish basics we had not moved with us.
I knew the kids were approaching meltdown-mode so I headed for the checkout. There was one lady ahead of us and it appeared she only had a bouquet of flowers. “Wahoo”, I thought. We were almost home free.
Then the cashier pulled out a paper bag filled with tags from stuffed animals and she started scanning. And scanning. And scanning. Eventually the store manager with 2 shopping carts filled with the stuffed animals appeared and thanked the lady for her generosity. She then turned to my kids and said “I’ve purchased stuffies for all the kids that come through, please help yourself”.
My daughter happily picked a dog and my son responded “No, thank you”. Further questioning revealed he preferred cars. The lady responded with an “of course you do”. She then turned to the store manager and said “We need hot wheels!”
To this day, I do not know where the store manager went but he arrived back (and out of breath) a few minutes later with an assortment of hot wheel cars.
Shortly after, the cashier processed my order and said “I’ve heard stories but I’ve never seen it in action.” And explained the kind lady was Mrs. Jo Campbell, (then) owner of Thrifty Foods. That was our first welcome to this beautiful city and I will always remember her kindness.
Alex, Lorne, Bonnie and Families,
So sorry to hear of Mum’s passing. She was a kind, generous lady and I have many fond memories of her (and your Dad) from the old Shop-Easy days and Ladysmith also. The world is a sadder place with her gone.
Please accept heartfelt condolences from an old grocery guy.
Warmest Regards
Barry Whincup
To all the family:
We send our deepest condolences to you all. Jo made us laugh, love and live. An incredible lady who we can say left this world having made it a better place.
We have so many wonderful memories of our summers boating with Jo and Alex, always an adventure full of laughter and discovery.
May she rest in peace.
Love Ann and Ron Postings and family
Dear Alex, Bonnie and Lorne,
Your mother will be deeply missed along with her infectious smile and out going personality. We are thinking of both the Campbell and Ward families during this difficult time.
Our thoughts and prayers to you all.
My sincere condolences to Jo’s family. She was an amazing person filled with Joy.
Our sincere condolences Alex, Lorne, Bonnie & families. Learning about the passing of Jo has brought up many great memories of her, your dad and your family on 3rd Avenue in Ladysmith. She was so warm and inviting to all the neighbourhood into her home. I remember the lightning watching under the deck with hot chocolate! She was such a sweet, kind lady who impacted so many.
Condolences from Karen, Wayne, Laurie & Janelle – The Erskine’s