Josie Dean

Josie Mae Ward Dean was born on December 25, 1944, to Pringle and Charity Ward in Goulds, Florida, where she spent her formative years. In her early twenties, Josie relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, and made it her home for over fifty years.

Josie professed her faith in Jesus Christ, was baptized, and joined Westwood Baptist Church in 1971.

Josie was employed 38 years as a Dietary Aide at Baptist Hospital before retiring. There she made many lifelong friends and made a significant impact through her dedicated work.

Josie found great joy in spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She had a passion for crafting, decorating, hosting family gatherings, enjoying music, and helping others. Her warm spirit and beauty shone both inside and out, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Pringle and Charity Ward, as well as her brothers: Russell, Elton, and Pringle Jr. Ward; sisters: Norma Ward and Mable Cooper; and her grandson, JuJuan Dean.

Josie's leaves to cherish her memory her two sisters, Ora Ward and Bessie Roberts; her children: sons, James A.G. (Davina) Dean and Vincent Ward Dean; daughters, Monique (Kristopher) Sanders; and Reneta Dean and Davina (Andre’ Payne Sr.) Dean. Additionally, she is survived by her god-daughter Jamie Dean, and cherished grandchildren: DeVaughn Edmondson, Reginald Baxter, Mack Stone, Dominique Stone, DeAndre Dean, Kei’Shawn Payne, Andre Payne, Kei’lexis Payne, Andrew Dean, Adrian Dean, Allisha Dean, Asia Dean, Kristian Sanders, Aidan Sanders, Jacob Dean, Mercelle Dean, and Vonechia Dean, along with 23 great-grandchildren and a multitude of nieces and nephews.

Josie's memory will be lovingly cherished by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.