Josephine M. Thomas, 90

April 19, 2023

Josephine M. Thomas, 90, of Lititz, went into the arms of the Lord on April 19, 2023. On March 13, 1933, Ralph Raymond, and Ruby (Alexander) Morris welcomed Josephine in Camden, New Jersey. She was the devoted wife of the late Larry Thomas and together, they had a son, Edward Thomas.

Josephine, affectionately known as “Aunt Joe” was born and raised in New Jersey, but as an adult, moved to Philadelphia where she lived for the majority of her adulthood. With only an 8th grade education, she became a very skilled and professional seamstress and business woman.

She had a deep love for her family and surrounded herself with them whenever she could – especially the younger children in the family. She took great joy in maintaining her plants and garden for all to admire; some of her favorite flowers being tulips and orchids. Josephine enjoyed traveling with her niece “Lady” Tanya Foster, was a connoisseur of fine cuisine, and often took advantage of wine tasting events with her niece Betty Chavous. Betty’s husband, Robert “Big Bob” Chavous was always the designated driver. Aunt Joe always loved to go shopping and had a great eye for shoes. She had lots of shoes. She was also admired by friends and family for her pleasant disposition and infectious smile.

To know Aunt Joe is to love her. She will be greatly missed by many, including Andrea Foster, Dana Foster, Vendetta Foster, Pernell Foster, Tina Foster, “Lady” Tanya Foster, Larry Thomas, Darryl Thomas, Robert Thomas, Jr., Phyllis Hilley, Robert Thomas, and Robert Chavous; a host of great nieces, nephews, and extended family members and friends, including her four-legged nephew, Alf, who she spoiled with treats twice a day. She was preceded in passing by her husband Larry; a son, Edward Thomas; a niece, Elizabeth “Betty” Chavous, and all of her siblings.

The family invites guests to a Celebration of Josephine’s life at 11 AM on Friday, April 28, 2023, at the Sharon Baptist Church, 3955 Conshohocken Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19131. A viewing will be held at the church from 10 AM until the time of service. Interment to follow at West Laurel Hill Cemetery, Bala Cynwyd. Memorial contributions honoring Josephine can be made to High Point Community Church, 18 Hahnstown Rd., Ephrata, PA 17522. Please include “Josephine Thomas” in the memo line.