Mrs. Josephine Randolph was born on June 30, 1937, in Memphis, Tennessee, to the late Joseph Jamerson and Mary Lou Jamerson. She was blessed to live a full and beautiful life of 88 years.
For 70 of those years, she was married to her strong and devoted husband, Theodore Randolph. To their union were born eight beautiful children, and she lovingly welcomed a stepdaughter, Geraldine Lofties, before their marriage.
Josephine faced life’s challenges with unwavering faith, prayer, and trust in the Lord. She was a wonderful wife and mother who kept a spotless home, made sure her children were clean and well-fed, and always had hot meals ready when her husband returned from work.
In addition to her work at home, she was employed as a housekeeper and maid. When transportation was unavailable, she walked to work without complaint. She also volunteered at local polling stations during elections and later worked at Popeye’s, where her biscuits became a favorite. At home, there was always food on the stove, ready for the many hungry strangers her husband welcomed—many of whom became lifelong friends. Everyone remembers her kind smile and open heart.
For 24 years, Josephine served faithfully as an ordained mother at Zion Temple Apostolic Church in Gary, Indiana, where she sang in the senior choir and served in the kitchen. Her biscuits were just as loved at church as they were at home.
She passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025, in Chula Vista, California, surrounded by family.
She was preceded in death by her husband Theodore R. Randolph Sr., her parents; Mary Lou Smith and Joseph Jamerson, stepfather John E. Smith Sr., daughter Regina Sibley, son-in-law James E. Anthony, brothers; Jessie Jamerson and Buster Macklin, sisters; Barbara Jamerson and Linda Ingram, and several in-laws.
She leaves to cherish her legacy her children; Davita (Roy) Brown, Theodore R. Randolph Jr., Ronald (Diane) Randolph Sr., Wallese Anthony, Cedric J. (Mary) Randolph, Vicki L. Bishop, and Dennis L. (Marilyn) Randolph Sr., stepdaughter Geraldine Lofties, son-in-law Carey Sibley, 21 grandchildren, 71 great-grandchildren, and 37 great-great-grandchildren, sisters; Thelma Taylor, Johnnie Spencer, JoAnn Smith, and Jackie (Maurice) Martin, brothers; John Earl Smith Jr. and Joseph Jamerson Jr., along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
She will be deeply missed and remembered for her love, faith, and beautiful soul
