FRANKLIN – Josephine Futrell Sumner, 95, passed away Nov. 1, 2024 in Courtland Health and Rehabilitation Center. A lifelong resident of Southampton County, she was a daughter of the late Elton P. Futrell Sr. and Fannie Jo Vick Futrell. She was also predeceased by her loving husband, J.W. Sumner; three brothers, Elton Futrell Jr., Rufus E. Williams and Jim Williams; and two sisters, Mary Latimer and Pauline Philhower.

Josephine is survived by her daughter, Jo Ann Grossman; her beloved grandchildren, Rudee Payne (Joe) of Santee, California; Miles Bryant and Reno Bryant (Miranda) both of Minnesota; her great-grandchildren, Jordan Matthew Payne, Jamie Monique Payne, Josia Maleek Payne and Joseph Michael Payne Jr (JoJo); and several nieces and nephews and a host of cousins.

She was a very loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. Josephine was a graduate of Newsoms High School and Webb Business School in Franklin. She was a retired cost clerk at St. Regis Paper Company. Josephine was a member of Franklin Baptist Church having served in several capacities and was also a member of the 39er’s Club.

Josephine was a people person and loved dancing and decorating. She was also an avid gardener. Her motto was “The kiss of the sun for pardon; the song of the birds for mirth. One is nearer God’s heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth!” Her wishes were to thank everyone that had shown their love and caring for her. May God bless you.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 15 in Franklin Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, Josephine requested memorial donations be made to Franklin Baptist Church, 208 N. High Street, Franklin, VA 23851.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org