Meet Jojo Schroder, the Grand Marshall of the 98th Annual Graham County Fair Parade!

The Graham County Fair is all about celebrating community, and this year, we are thrilled to honor a true pillar of the Gila Valley—Jojo Schroder—as our 2024 Parade Grand Marshall.

When Jojo and her late husband Jake Schroder moved to the Gila Valley in 1978 to purchase Thriftee, no one could have predicted how integral they would become to the fabric of this community. As her granddaughter, Bailey Smith, says, “I don’t think anyone could predict what valued members they would both become to this community. But over the last 46 years, Thriftee has provided a hometown grocery store where customers can feel welcomed and appreciated.”

Thriftee isn’t just a grocery store—it’s a place where Jojo and her team have built personal connections with everyone who walks through the door. Bailey shares, “Most days Jojo can be found in the front office greeting customers with a smile and ear to listen. She truly cares about each and every one that comes through the front door.”

After Jake’s passing in 2020, Jojo continued to embody the spirit of service they had built together, supporting not only the Gila Valley community through her store but also local schools and youth organizations. As Bailey puts it, “Jojo has continued to carry on his legacy of serving the Gila Valley not only by providing a great shopping experience but also by supporting the local schools and youth organizations through sponsorships and donations.”

Jojo's kindness is felt far beyond the walls of Thriftee. Bailey notes, “Jojo has never met a stranger and is usually the first to offer her love and support to those in need.” Her genuine care for her neighbors, friends, and the youth of this community is evident in every act of service.

It’s this unwavering love for the Gila Valley that makes Jojo the perfect choice to lead this year’s Graham County Fair Parade. As we prepare for the parade, we are honored to celebrate someone who has spent decades uplifting those around her.

Please join us in welcoming Jojo Schroder as the Grand Marshall of the 98th Annual Graham County Fair Parade. Be sure to wave as she proudly leads the festivities on Main Street, continuing the legacy she and Jake started all those years ago!

We can’t wait to see you all at the parade!