Mrs. Josephine Smith

Josephine Smith, 93, passed away on April 27, 2026. A beloved mother of three, grandmother of five grandchildren, great grandmother of 5 great grandchildren, and a devoted Methodist, Josephine was known for her steadfast faith, lifelong commitment to education, and dedication to public service. Born on June 6, 1932 in Taft, Tennessee, to Richard Q and Mary Carter Marshall Josephine learned early the value of hard work and community. Her love of learning and basketball opened doors that shaped her future—she attended college on a basketball scholarship, an achievement she carried with pride throughout her life. Josephine’s passion for education became her calling. After her two years at East Mississippi Junior College (1951, 1952), she delayed further formal education until 1965 when she began studies at Campbellsville College, graduating in 1967. She went on to earn two Masters Degrees and an AA in Education as she devoted her career to serving students, families, and staff. Through years of classroom and school leadership, she became a school principal and was admired for her high standards, steady presence, and deep belief that every child deserved opportunity and encouragement. Her service extended beyond the schoolhouse as Josephine was elected to the Scottsboro City Council, serving two years as President Pro Tem and two years as President. She worked to strengthen her community with the same care and determination she brought to education. She believed in listening well, doing right, and leaving things better than she found them. She served on numerous associations and civic organizations at local and state levels in membership and leadership roles including the VFW Auxiliary, the Alabama Retired Teachers Association, the Alabama Association for Counseling and Development, Delta Kappa Gamma Rho Chapter, and the American Association of University Women. She also served on the Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors, the Council on Aging Board member, United Way Board member, and Girl Scouts of North America Council. A faithful member of the Methodist church, Josephine’s life reflected her commitment to God and neighbor. She found joy in worship, fellowship, and serving others, and her faith remained an anchor through every season of life. Josephine is survived by her loving children: Chester Lee Smith, Mary Jacqueline LaRue, and Patricia Louise Barron; brother: Clifford Marshall; grandchildren: Marshall Smith, Jeb Smith, Emma Strickland, Amy LaRue, and Anna Wimmer; great grandchildren Nola Smith, Marqsanne Smith, Ruby Smith, Josie Strickland, and Thomas Strickland. She was preceded in death by her husband Chester, mother Mary, father Richard, brother Mansion, sister Fannie, sister Louise, sister, Mary B. The family will receive friends on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Scottsboro Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at First United Methodist Church of Scottsboro. The family requests memorial donations be made to FUMC Children’s Programs. The family extends heartfelt thanks to caregivers/hospice/friends/church family for their kindness and support

Mrs. Josephine Smith

June 6, 1932 - April 27, 2026