In Memory of Ruth W. Josey

Obituary for Ruth Josey

Ruth Josey, 80, of Columbus, MS, passed away on July 27, 2017.

A celebration of her life will be held at Welch’s Funeral Home in Starkville, MS on Tuesday August 1, 2017. Visitation will be held from 9:30 A.M. to 10.30 A.M. Services will be held at 10:30 A.M. Burial will be held at Oddfellows Cemetary in Starkville.

Ruth was born in Westpoint, MS on September 19, 1936. She married James Thomas Josey of Starkville on September 2, 1951. They were married until his death January 11 of 2001, residing in Starkville for the entirety of their marriage.
Ruth moved to Trinity Place Independent Living Center in Columbus, MS in August of 2015.

Ruth was retired from her job at MSU in the Food Science Dept. Prior to that career Ruth was employed by the USDA/ASCS office in Starkville.
She enjoyed gardening, reading, studying the Bible, and playing with her great grandchildren.
Ruth was active in her Bible study classes at Calvary Baptist Church in Starkville, where she volunteered for the Food Bank. She also volunteered teaching English as a second language at International Friendship House. Upon moving to Columbus in 2015, Ruth attended Fairview Baptist Church, where she quickly became loved.

During her time at MSU, Ruth mentored many students, helping them in their endeavors at MSU, getting settled in to the community, and whatever they might need assistance with. She was loved by many students from all over the world who attended MSU. She served as their guide, counselor, and advisor. She touched the lives of all who knew her.

Ruth is survived by her daughters Jeanne Josey of Telluride, Colorado & Karen Riekhof of Starkville, grandsons Cody Watson of Amory, Layton Hebert of Los Angeles, CA., and Rieves & Thomas Riekhof of Starkville.

Ruth is preceded in death by her husband James Thomas Josey, her daughter Beth Josey Watson, her parents Cecil & Mary Ellen White, and her brother Dewey White.

Memorials may be made in her memory at Calvary Baptist Church in Starkville, Fairview Baptist Church in Columbus, or the charity of your choice.