Jo Ann Weiss Savitz Bass, the heart and soul behind Joe’s Stone Crab, one of Miami Beach’s most beloved institutions, died on January 31 at the age of 94. She died peacefully in hospice care at her Miami Beach home, just across the street from the restaurant her family had founded more than a century earlier. His death marks the end of an era for the iconic restaurant that has been a staple of South Florida’s culinary scene.
What happened:
In a statement shared via Joe’s Stone Crabbe’s official social media accounts, the family announced Bass’s passing with deep sadness. Highlighting Bass’s vital role in the restaurant’s continued success, the message said, “Jo Ann was much more than CEO, matriarch, visionary, brand custodian and chief tastemaker of Joe’s Stone Crab. She was mother.”
Born in Miami Beach on October 18, 1931, Bass grew up with Joe Stone Crab, which was founded in 1913 by his grandfather Joe Weiss. What began as a small establishment serving fish sandwiches on the front porch of Weis’s eventually became a global culinary landmark after the introduction of stone crab to the menu in 1921. Joe’s Stone Crab became synonymous with fine dining in Miami Beach, attracting world-famous celebrities and dignitaries over the years from Frank Sinatra to Elizabeth Taylor.
Jo Ann’s leadership and legacy:
Bass’s dedication to the family business began at an early age, beginning his work in restaurants as a teenager in the mid-1940s. After taking a decade-long break to focus on raising her children, she returned to the restaurant full-time. Following the passing of his father, Jesse Weiss, who had managed the restaurant for 60 years, Bass stepped into the leadership role with his son, Stephen Sauvitz.
Under his guidance, Joe’s Stone Crab faced and overcame many challenges, including the devastating Hurricane Andrew, while maintaining its reputation as one of the most renowned dining destinations in the country. Famous for its seasonal stone crabs, creamed spinach and Key Lime Pie, the restaurant became a cultural touchstone for the South Florida community and beyond.
“It’s in my blood,” Bass said in a 2012 interview. “I love it. The whole place, it’s my family, it’s my security blanket… it’s Joe’s. It’s an amazing place.” His love of the restaurant and his vision for its future were central to its continued success.
Public reactions and tributes:
Jo Ann Bass’s passing echoes across South Florida, where she was a beloved figure in both the hospitality industry and the community. Joe’s Stone Crab has long been more than just a restaurant; It is an institution that has shaped the local culture and economy. Bass’ legacy extends far beyond business, his contributions to the South Florida community are immeasurable.
The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to organizations that Bass supported, including the Academy of Urban Construction and Crafts, Miami Rescue Mission, and Mount Sinai Hospital.
Looking ahead:
While a formal celebration of life will be announced in the coming days, Jo Ann Baise’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through the restaurant she helped create and the countless lives she touched during her 94 years. As South Florida mourns her loss, her family, friends and the many patrons of Joe’s Stone Crab will continue to celebrate her life, drawing inspiration from her dedication, vision and the love she brought to every aspect of her work.
“She lived a life well lived, worth celebrating and emulating,” the family statement concluded.