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Josephine Campbell Obituary

CAMPBELL, Josephine Bernice
June 1940 - July 2025
Josephine Bernice Campbell (née Ward) born - June 21, 1940, passed away on Friday, July 4, 2025, in Victoria, BC - the city where she was born into a large and loving family, guided by her parents, Walter and Alice Ward (née Clear).

Jo, as she was affectionately known, began her working life at a grocery store on Cook Street. It was there, in 1960, that she met her future husband, Alex Campbell. They married in 1961 and went on to have three children-first two boys, then completed their family with a daughter in 1967.

Jo and Alex left their hometown, raising their young family in Port Alberni, Surrey, and Ladysmith before returning to Victoria in 1977. After selling the 49th Grocery in Ladysmith, they opened the first Thrifty Foods in Fairfield alongside partners Ernie and Carol Skinner-launching not just a successful business venture, but a lifelong friendship.

Jo quickly became a beloved presence among staff and customers alike. She was always ready with a big smile, a great story, and her legendarily generous heart. She cherished her Thrifty Foods family and made it a point to truly connect with people, one-on-one. During the Thrifty era, everyone looked forward to Jo's store visits - and perhaps even more to her shenanigans at the annual Christmas party.

Jo was part of a very close-knit family, and she, Alex, and their children spent many joyful days at her parents' home on Scott Street-often surrounded by her siblings, cousins, and lifelong family friends. The house may have been small, but it was always bursting with people, laughter, and love. Everyone was welcome, and there was never a shortage of good times.

This deep love of family was always at the centre of Jo's heart. She was a proud and devoted mother and grandmother, and her grandchildren were truly the light of her life. Whether it was sleepovers at the house, adventures on the boat, or weekends at the lake, Jo made sure every moment was filled with joy and fun-so much so that the kids were never in a hurry to go home.

Though Jo was always a nervous flyer, she overcame her fear to enjoy many travel adventures with Alex. Together, they explored far-off places like Russia, China, France, England, and Portugal-and especially loved their time in Mexico. She was just as uneasy on the water but again pushed past her fears to enjoy both sailing and powerboating.

Jo also had a gift for gathering people. She loved a good tea party-any excuse to bring friends together over delicious food, warm conversation, and plenty of laughter. No one ever left one of Jo's gatherings hungry, thirsty, or without a smile.

True to her generous spirit, Jo dedicated time to charity and volunteer work, quietly supporting countless causes across Victoria. She was a deeply generous donor, willing to give where help was needed. One of her greatest sources of pride was the Alex & Jo Campbell Centre for Health and Wellness at Camosun College. Jo not only helped fund the building itself but also established annual bursaries for nursing students-investing in the future of compassionate care. Many other charities benefited from her kindness, whether through heartfelt donations or her famously fierce auction bidding.

Jo spent the last two years at St. Charles Manor, where she was cared for with kindness and compassion. Her family extends heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff who supported our much-loved Mom. Jo especially enjoyed the times when Stephanie Greaves would visit to sing many of her favourite songs - these moments brought her joy.

Jo leaves behind her beloved children: Alex (Elsie), Lorne (Nancy), and Bonnie (Frank); her cherished grandchildren: Pelle (Genevieve), Haden (Gabby), Sofie (Nicolai), Shea, Nick, Alison, Kayleigh, and Connor. She is also survived by her siblings: Terry (Diane), Cathy (Bob), Nancy (Wayne), and Penny (Peter), as well as an extended circle of cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends-too many to name, but each held a special place in her heart.

She loved deeply and was deeply loved.

A private family service will be held with a celebration of life to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Alex and Jo Centre for Health and Wellness at Camosun College, in honour of Jo's enduring legacy of care and generosity.
https://webservices.camosun.ca/foundation/memorial-gifts/

Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallgardens.com
Published by Victoria Times Colonist from Jul. 9 to Jul. 11, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Josephine Campbell

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14 Entries

The Tackaberry´s

July 21, 2025

On behalf of the Tackaberry family, we were lucky to know this most fun spirited kind person...she leaves so many wonderful positive happy memories.

Hollie High

July 21, 2025

Sending love and huge hugs in the loss of your beautiful mom.

Steve Beggs

July 18, 2025

We have many fond memories of boating with Jo and Alex. Our favourite is Jo playing games on the floor with our grandchildren.
Her sense of humour will be greatly missed
Myrna and Steve Beggs

Barb Walker

July 17, 2025

From the beautifully lit forty foot tall tree on Jo´s lawn at Christmas, the numerous gatherings for neighbours and friends, endless karaoke renditions or generous gift bags Jo would bring for everyone at our backyard tea party, this dynamic, fun-loving and deeply kind person will be so missed by Ray and I. Our sympathies to the family. These memories will live on. Thank you Jo.

Cindy Randall

July 14, 2025

I was a part of the Thrifty's family for 16 years and witnessed countless acts of kindness and generosity by Jo Campbell. She was a wonderful person. My sincere condolences to the family.

Bob Eagle

July 10, 2025

We have known Jo for many years and everything that has been written about her is absolutely true! She was an open, warm person who treated everyone with kindness, respect and honesty. Any interactions with her were always a bright spot in one's day and sense of humour was infectious. Her generosity of spirt and heart to whomever she met, will long be cherished. Our thoughts go out to her family; while her passing is sad, Jo showed what a life well-lived looked like! She will be missed and remembered!

Bob Eagle & Rosie Octobre

Marge Anderson

July 10, 2025

I have known Jo since she and Alex were clients of mine many years ago. Several years ago while manning a hospital auxiliary event at Country Grocer in Lake Cowichan, Jo brought a huge cart full of groceries to us and asked us to give it to someone in need. That was Jo, a true lady who cared about others, even those she didn´t know. Your family is Blessed to have had such a wonderful Mother and example to follow. RIP Jo.

Dianna(Hamilton) Storr

July 9, 2025

My condolences to the entire Campbell family - I have many great memories about Jo- we went to school together until high school. Did not see her again until I volunteered at Thrifty Foods when I retired. Take care of each other.
Dianna Hamilton

Sandi Epp Stuart

July 9, 2025

My heartfelt condolences to the entire Campbell family in the loss of a mom,sister grandmother and matriarch. Both of your parent´s generosity made a profound difference I so many lives.

Kelly Gossen

July 9, 2025

I was lucky to meet Jo when her youngest sister Penny and I were in high school.

Jo had a big heart with a big laugh who truly loved her family. I have wonderful memories of the time I spent with them.

Sending my deepest condolences to her family.

Donna Schaddelee

July 9, 2025

My favourite memory with Joe she and I took our grandchildren to see the lion King in Vancouver. It was a beautiful weekend and we had such a lot of fun. May she rest in peace love you, Jo.

Glenlyon Norfolk School Alumni Engagement and Advancement Staff

July 9, 2025

On behalf of Glenlyon Norfolk School, we send our deepest sympathies on your recent loss. Sincerely, the staff of Alumni Engagement & Advancement.

Mill Bay Food Bank

July 9, 2025

Dear Campbell Family,

We still smile when we think of Mrs. Campbell's kindness to our wee little food bank in Mill Bay. From the early days when we were just starting out in the 80s, her Christmas and Summer donations were a lifeline, providing crucial support when we needed it most. What struck us most was her quiet humility, giving without seeking recognition or praise. We'll always be grateful for her legacy of support.

With sympathy, The CMS Food Bank Team

Serena Johnson

July 9, 2025

Such a lovely lady, my condolences to her family and friends, together with Alex now, may she rest in peace.

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