Obituary of Josephine Speights

Josephine Speights was born in Dublin, Laurens County, Georgia on July 28, 1928 to the late Redden James (Kinston, NC) and Mamie Wiggs Speights (Emanuel County, GA). She was the youngest of fourteen children. Thirteen siblings—Bruce Elmore, Viola, Hattie, Ned Luther “Preacher”, Lamar “Bit”, Equilla, Annie Mae, Doris, Garfield “Buddy”, Georgianna, Monroe, and two infant siblings, Priscilla and Baby Speight—preceded her in death. Josephine Speights departed this life on 2 February 2021. At an early age, Josephine was baptized at the Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Dublin, Georgia. She attended the Mary Grove Public School. However, due to the death of her father and family hardship, she was unable to complete her studies. In 1950, Josephine moved to Tampa, FL, where she lived for a brief period. She later moved to Philadelphia, PA in 1951 to live near her two older brothers, Bruce and Ned Luther and sister, Georgianna. Josephine joined the Disciples of Christ Church, Berlin, NJ under the leadership of her uncle, Bishop Joseph H. Levine (Emmaline Speight Levine). After the death of Bishop Levine, she continued her spiritual growth at Disciples of Christ Church under the leadership of Bishop James E. Moore. There she taught primary Sunday School and served as secretary of the adult class. She was a devoted member until the church was sold. Soon after, “Josie” or “Holy Jo” as she was affectionately known by some friends, became a member of the 2nd Timothy Tabernacle Baptist Church, Burlington, NJ under the leadership of Pastor Louis S. Graham. She sang in the senior choir. Her favorite song was “I’m Bound for Mt. Zion” which she led. For a short time, she also attended Mt. Carmel Baptist Church. Josephine embraced other opportunities to serve the Lord and her church. Her committed service to the Lord and church, she was appointed as Head of the Nurse’s Unit, faithful member of the Pastor’s Aide, Mother Board and in various other roles without complaining. Although she was dedicated wherever she was lead, she never felt at home because her heart was always with the Disciples of Christ Church. Remaining true to her faith, years later, a friend invited her to visit Mt. Zion United Holy Church, Philadelphia, PA, under the leadership of Pastor Hattie L. Fairfax. She quickly became active as a dedicated member and Mother. She remained a steadfast member until her sunset. Josephine had many employment opportunities. Her greatest love was caring for the sick. She went to school to become a home health aide so that she could pursue a career in the health profession. For many years, she was devoted caregiver and became a family friend. When she was not working, she was very active in her community. Josephine was of the top leaders of the Philadelphia Horticulture Association. Her impeccable work ethics were highly recognized. In 1982, she was given an award for starting a community garden. As a skilled community gardener, she was one of the first in her community to model the “From Farm/Garden to Table” Ministry which is now a national model for urban gardens across the United States. The following year in 1983, she received the City of Philadelphia’s “Beautiful Clean Street Award” for Hutton Street, Philadelphia, PA. This is the street on which she lived and served as Block Captain for many years. “Aunt Jo” as she was affectionately known by her nieces and nephews had a way with words, always enjoyed a humorous joke and a good laugh. To describe her surprise or dismay at some untoward behavior, anyone was subject to being described by her as “a trip without a suitcase” and "I'll give you some juice than cut you loose". Rarely was she at a loss for words. On those occasions when there simply did not seem to be an explanation, she would say, “Come here, Peter with the key!” In addition to her tenacious spirit, she loved baking, cooking and "breaking bread/meals" throughout the community. Josie did not mind sharing recipes. Two of her specialties were her famous red velvet cake and "dang good” pies. Yup, those pies were "dang" good! Another one of her favorite pastimes was shopping. Oh, did she love shopping. She would "shop until she dropped". Josie was quite a well-dressed Queen! Aunt Jo wanted it to be known that she often felt used and taken for granted. Nevertheless, she was always there for those who needed her. She loved life, she loved people, she loved her church fellowship. At any time of day or night, she would start singing old hymns. She would sit for hours just singing. A few of her favorites were "In the Sweet By and By”, "Oh, I Want to See Him" and "If You Hear of My Homegoing". Mother Josephine was very devoted to her family, church families, friends, and neighbors. She leaves precious memories to all who were blessed to know and love her. Her Celebration of Life and Homegoing will be remembered by beloved niece and primary caregiver, Patricia “Trish” Speight and Godson, Dallas Hill. She fondly recognized them as her children. A special cousin, Christine Speight Jenkins (pre-decreased). Also, host of generational nieces, nephews, cousins, church community, friends, neighbors, and a God sent (an Angel), an adored friend, Syretta Brown from Care Pavilion Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, Philadelphia, PA, longtime extended family, Deacon Floyd and Mother Brenda Riley, Deacon Edward Long and Deacon Jerome and Deaconess Cathy Watson.