Jo Dixon, 70, passed away unexpectedly, on March 7, 2020, at her home in Estero, FL.   A professor of sociology at New York University until her retirement last year, Jo received a BA in sociology at the University of North Carolina, Greensborough in 1972, her MA in sociology at Emory University in 1981, and her PhD in sociology at Indiana University in 1989.  Jo was an accomplished and highly regarded scholar known for her research on criminal sentencing, domestic and sexual violence, and gender discrimination in the legal profession. She also was a committed and award-winning teacher and mentor at the NYU campuses in New York, Prague and Abu Dhabi.  Jo served in leadership and editorial positions in several professional associations.

Jo had an inspiring sense of adventure and curiosity. She was beloved by her family and friends, maintaining strong, cherished bonds for decades. She had a wonderful laugh, cheered for her friends' successes and comforted them at times of sadness and loss.

Jo was born in Dunn, North Carolina on November 20, 1949.  Her parents were Wallace and Annie Laurie Dixon.   She is survived by her loving husband, Mari C. Engracia, her brother Wallace (Dana) Dixon, sisters-in-law Danna Sue Dixon and Ann Tart Dixon, as well her stepchildren, Jennifer, Judith and Jay and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and her brothers EB Dixon and David Dixon. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Tinnitus Association.