Josie Mitchem

Josie Phine Johnson Mitchem, Feb. 7, 1944 – May 18, 2021

Josie as she was affectionately known to all was a beautiful and loving lady.  Josie was born Feb. 7, 1944 to Tom Johnson Jr. and Virgil Mae Johnson, both preceded her in death.  She had three siblings, Tom Junior Johnson, Eddie Dean Johnson and Virgie Loveless, who preceded her in death in 1983.

Josie attended John Adams High School, Cleveland, OH.  After H.S., Josie was a window model for Woolworth’s.  She was an excellent typist and a journalist.  She hosted her own new television show, Dimensions in Black, at KMBC TV, Kansas City, Kansas.  In 1970, Josie suffered a near fatal car accident that left her physically challenged for the rest of her life.  However, through the grace of God, she became even stronger and determined.  Josie did not allow that experience to define her.  She worked many years after the accident, and lived an additional 50 years.  She supported many charities, having recently received an honorary award from St. Joseph’s Indian School.

Josie had three children, LaVonne Monroe, Edward Dent (who preceded her in death, Feb. 2012), and Jacqueline Mitchem-Brown.  Josie leaves behind four grandchildren, Joshua Mitchem, Madison Monroe, Christian Brown, and Martel Brown.  She also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews, family, and friends.  Josie never met anyone who didn’t admire her strength, style, and personality.  She had a wealth of knowledgeable, wisdom and she was resourceful.  She was also loving, kind and generous.  Josie was loved by many and will be sorely missed.

Josie will be forever in our hearts and we pray that she rests in peace.  We also pray that the peace of God comforts us in this time.