Josephine A. Smith

Josephine A. (Bauman) Smith Battle Creek Josephine A. (Bauman) Smith, age 77, of Battle Creek, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at her home on Monday, September 1, 2008. Josie was born December 27, 1930 in Battle Creek, Michigan the daughter of Joseph F. and Helen Marie (Geise) Bauman. She had been a lifelong resident of Battle Creek, graduating from St. Philip High School in 1948. On May 5, 1951, at St. Philip Catholic Church, she was united in marriage with Richard D. Smith. She was an active member of St. Philip Catholic Church. Josie was a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother. She had many friends and was grateful for each one of them. She was an avid card player, enjoyed sewing, and tolerated camping so she could spend time with her family. She had a wonderful faith that she lived every day. She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Richard D. Smith; her children: Margaret (Ron) Canfield of Battle Creek, Ginny (Mark) Elsesser of Brooklyn, OH, Fred (Lynda) Smith of Portage, Steve Smith of New Port Richey, FL, Mary Jo (Chuck) Jager of Stevensville and Teri (Paul) Nelson of Battle Creek; fifteen grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren. Also surviving are sisters: Theresa Hogan of Columbus, OH and Helen Schoder of Battle Creek; sister-in-laws: Joan Bauman of Battle Creek, Barbara Bauman of Kalamazoo, Sharon Smith of Battle Creek, Pat Haeske of Jupiter, FL and Mary Smith of Battle Creek; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers: Joseph, Justin, Vincent and Paul; and two sisters: Mary Agnes and Margaret. Visitation will be held Thursday at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home with family present from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and the Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 5, 2008 at St. Philip Catholic Church with the Rev. Father Charles H. Fischer officiating. Interment will follow at Fort Custer National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Philip Catholic Church, American Cancer Society or Good Samaritan Hospice Care.