Obituary of Josephine Howell Thomas

Josephine Howell Thomas, 88, of Raleigh, NC passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 2, 2020. Jo was born and raised on a dairy farm in Bedford County, near Huddleston, Va. “JoJo”, as she was affectionately known, was preceded in death by her wonderful, loving husband of 65 years, Hoover; her father, William Orville Howell; her mother, Oreta Smallwood Howell; and her two brothers, Sam and Glenn Howell. In addition to her husband “Hoovie”, Jo loved all of her family beyond words, including her two daughters, Rhonda Thomas and Rita Stephenson (husband Tim), grandsons Ashton Stephenson (and girlfriend Veronica Santos), Drew Stephenson (wife Whitney), and her great grandson Sawyer James Stephenson, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Jo got her start caring for families while working for a new doctor in the community of Huddleston, Va. She was most proud of being a wife and mother. Her home and flower garden brought her great pleasure. Together, Jo and Hoover traveled the country, the world, all the while loving and sharing everything together. For most of her adult life, Jo faithfully served his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ through Ridge Road Baptist Church, where she served as a deacon. The family would like to acknowledge the long-time loving care of Dr. Wells Edmondson; friend and caregiver Lisa Bobbitt; and the wonderful staff at Rex Heart and Vascular Hospital. The family will hold a graveside service at Mentow Baptist Church in Huddleston, VA on Friday, September 4, 2020 at 11:00am with the Reverend Dr. Steve Jolly, Ridge Road Baptist Church, officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial contributions be made to Ridge Road Baptist Church or Rex Heart and Vascular Hospital of Raleigh, NC. Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.