Josephine Frances Humphrey-Tailor was born in Leesville, South Carolina on March 31, 1948. She was affectionately known as “Jo-Jo” to all her family and friends.
She was raised by her devoted and loving grandmother, Margaret (Sing) Humphrey. As a child, she joined the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Leesville, South Carolina. She attended the local schools and graduated from Twin City High School in Batesburg-Leesville, South Carolina. Shortly after graduation, she went to New York City in pursuit of a nursing career and attended Hunter College and Hofstra.
Josephine was the Mother of and raised a wonderful son Samad (Sam) who provided for her in her later years. She was a loving and devoted grandmother who helped raise her beloved grandson, little Samad (“Boo-Boo”). She also loved and nurtured her wonderful and beautiful granddaughter Valentina (“V”).
Josephine was predeceased by her father William R. Humphrey, her brother William J. Humphrey, her grandmother Margaret “Sing” Humphrey, her aunt Mary Lue Humphrey-Hammond, her uncle Eugene Hammond, and her first cousin Lenore Denise Hammond.
On Sunday, September 16, 2018, Josephine transitioned to be with the Lord at home.
Josephine leaves to cherish her wonderful memories: her mother, Anne Ruth Humphrey of the Bronx, NY; one son, Samad A. Beeler of Elmwood Park, NJ; one grandson, Samad W. Beeler, one granddaughter, Valentina B. Beeler; one brother, Rev. Michael Humphrey of the Bronx, NY; one niece, Yoshieko A. Humphrey-Penix of Atlanta, GA; two nephews, Sean Humphrey and Zebedee Humphrey, both of the Bronx, NY; and four first cousins, Debra Hammond-Barnes Esq., Donna Hammond, Darlene Hammond-Mitchell and Dawn Hammond, all of Paterson, NJ; her dear loving and caring friend, Romena A. Estrella, who was like another mother figure to her. Josephine also leaves a host of family and friends that will always love and miss her.
Those who knew Jo-Jo as friend or family will fondly remember her generosity, selflessness and all welcoming demeanor.
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