Josephine Edith Hooks

 

Josephine Jones Hooks was a woman of faith, known for her unwavering devotion and her strong belief in God. She was a loyal member of Lee Chapel AME Church, where she found solace and community throughout her life.

Education held great importance to Josephine, and she proudly graduated from Liberty High School in Hazard, Kentucky on May 25, 1956. It was a significant year for her school, as it marked its integration. Josephine's determination and courage were evident even at a young age, as she pursued her education during a time of great social change.

Josephine furthered her education, graduating successfully in 1972 as a Registered Nurse from Tennessee State University School of Nursing.

On November 8, 1958, Josephine joined in matrimony with Walter Henry Hooks, and together they built a life filled with love, commitment, and mutual support. Their marriage was a source of strength and joy, and they shared many cherished memories throughout their years together.

Josephine's professional life was marked by her compassion and dedication to helping others. She worked as a Registered Nurse at Vanderbilt Hospital, where she provided comfort and care to countless patients. In addition to her nursing career. Josephine also owned Tender Loving daycare center, where she nurtured and guided young minds, leaving a lasting impact on the children she cared for.

After a long and fulfilling career, Josephine retired from the State of Tennessee working for Clover Bottom Development Center after thirty plus years of service. Her commitment to her work and the individuals she served was unwavering, and she made a positive difference in the lives of many. The staff and residents adored her.

Outside of her professional life, Josephine found joy in various hobbies and activities. She had a sharp mind and enjoyed exercising it through crossword puzzles, sudoku, and word searches. She was also skilled in sewing and took pleasure in creating beautiful garments. However, her greatest joy came from spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought immense happiness and love into her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Mable Jones, husband, Walter Hooks, siblings, Kathleen (Richard) Baker, Charlene (Richard) Combs, Irene Higgins, Billy Jones, Carl Jones, Ralph (Frankie) Jones, mother and father-in-law, John and Irene Hooks, sister-in-law, Jean Webster and brother-in-law, Ernest Adams

Josephine Jones Hooks leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and resilience. She will be deeply missed by her daughters, Susan (Charles)Reid, Shetieka Hooks, and her bonus daughter, Jacqueline (Tyrone)Sullivan. She is also survived by her sister, Pauline Adams, and her sisters-in-law, Lois Jones, Della (Harry)Jenkins, and Pam Howard, along with her brother-in-law, Charles Webster.

Her memory will be forever cherished by her grandchildren: Stephanie (Aaron )Kyle, Steven Miller Jr., Walter Joseph McKinley Miller, Chris (Katie) Hooks, Cejuan Hooks, Cennedy Hooks, Amanda Reid, Charles Reid Jr, Jordan Reid, Tony (Dijah) Sullivan, Phillip (Randalynn) Sullivan and Renee Hill-Carr. Additionally, she leaves behind her 27 great-grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Josephine Jones Hooks also touched the lives of many extended family members, including nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends Shirley Collins, Helen Shelton and Vanna Ferguson who will remember her warmth, generosity, and unwavering spirit.

As we mourn the loss of Josephine, let us also celebrate her remarkable life and the impact she had on those around her. Her legacy of faith, compassion, and dedication will continue to inspire and guide us in the years to come. May her soul rest in eternal peace.