Jo Lou Obituary-Death News; Joyce ‘Jo’ Yijia Lou, Electric Literature’s Former Deputy Editor Dies at 33
It is with immense sorrow and heartbreak that we share the untimely passing of Joyce “Jo” Yijia Lou, who died on July 8, 2025, at just 33 years old. Jo was a beloved editor, writer, mentor, and community builder whose work at Electric Literature left an indelible mark on contemporary literary culture.
Her sudden passing has left her friends, colleagues, and the broader literary world stunned and devastated. Jo began her journey with Electric Literature in 2017 as an intern, and over the course of seven transformative years, she rose through the ranks to serve as Assistant Editor, Interviews Editor, Books Editor, and ultimately, Deputy Editor.
Her tenure was marked by tireless dedication, sharp editorial vision, and a boundless commitment to equity and representation in literature. She edited more than 1,000 interviews and reading lists, many of which became defining features of EL’s mission to uplift diverse voices and critically engage with the world through books.
Jo had an unwavering sense of justice and compassion. She championed writers from marginalized backgrounds and used the platform to address urgent issues through literature.
She edited literary guides on antifascism, decolonization, the war in Ukraine, and Palestine, and compiled resources to support struggling indie publishers and writers. Her work not only informed and educated readers but also offered vital support during moments of cultural and political crisis.
Her creativity was matched by her genuine love for books and her belief that literature could—and should—be joyful. She spearheaded reader engagement initiatives like book cover contests and emoji-based guessing games, which became beloved traditions at EL.
But it was her passion for discovering new voices and mentoring young writers that stood at the heart of her work. She carefully tracked demographic data to ensure the platform’s inclusivity, and took extra care to ensure every intern and junior editor felt valued.
Her handwritten notes of encouragement were cherished by many—symbols of her thoughtfulness and belief in others’ potential. One former intern, Kristina Busch, recalled: “After my internship ended, Jo sent me a handwritten note that I still keep taped to my fridge.
Her kindness stayed with me long after our time together.” These gestures—quiet but deeply meaningful—were typical of Jo’s personality: generous, encouraging, and quietly transformative.
Outside the office, Jo’s life was as vibrant as her editorial work. She loved translated fiction and read widely, often recommending favorite titles like Trick Mirror, Quicksand, Convenience Store Woman, and Beauty Is a Wound.
Her rainbow-organized bookshelf reflected her pride in her literary tastes, while her signature fashion flair (including the iconic “Fleabag jumpsuit” worn to EL’s annual Masquerade) showcased her bold spirit and eye for beauty.
Jo also delighted in baking—bringing elaborate homemade desserts to the EL office and sharing them with glee. Her dog Billy, a beloved companion and office mascot, brought comfort and joy to staff and became a staple presence at EL’s headquarters in its pre-COVID days.
The loss of Jo Lou is immeasurable. Her influence stretched far beyond her bylines and edits; she was a steady, brilliant force behind the scenes whose contributions shaped countless literary careers and helped build a more inclusive, compassionate literary world.
She was more than an editor—she was a mentor, advocate, friend, and inspiration. Her memory and impact will endure in the voices she championed, the community she nurtured, and the legacy of excellence and care she left behind. Jo Lou will never be forgotten.
