Josephine Means Obituary in Spartanburg at J.W. Woodward Funeral Home

Obituary For Josephine Means

Josephine Thompson Means, 90, of 2501 New Cut Road, Spartanburg SC transitioned to her heavenly home on February 15, 2025, surrounded by family. She was born in Spartanburg County to the union of the late Alvin Thompson and Ruth R. Thompson. She was the widow of Johnny Means.

Mrs. Means was a member of Upper Shady Grove Baptist Church, Wellford, SC and attended faithfully until her health declined. Over the years, she served the church in many different capacities.

Mrs. Means was known as a woman given to hospitality. She cooked large meals that were enjoyed by family, friends and anyone who happened to stop by. She also loved her hats and flowers. Getting dressed for church always meant a nice hat. Her love for flowers was evident in her yard and in her home. She could get a little upset if you messed with her flowers - as her grands frequently discovered when they would pick them.

Mrs. Means was preceded in death by: a daughter, Emma Jo Means Gordon; a son, Michael Means; three brothers, John Thompson, her twin brother, Joseph "Joe" Thompson, James "Bay" Thompson; four sisters, Mamie Jeter, Lillie Mae Fullenwinder, Mattie Ruth Brannon and Daisy Mae Rice.

Left to cherish fond and loving memories are: two sons, John W. (Janice) Means of Columbia, SC and Horace L. (Patricia) Means of Spartanburg, SC; one stepson, Larry Johnson of Spartanburg, SC; four daughters, Lottie R. (Willie) Irby of Spartanburg, SC, Betty Means of the home, Margaret Elaine (Thomas) Smith of Roebuck, SC and Sharon (James) McCarroll of Inman, SC; 1 brother, Willie "Buster" Thompson of Chesnee, SC; 2 sisters, Christine Wilkins and Emma Finger; 2 sisters-in-law, Joann Jones and Ida Thompson; 1 brother-in-law, Larry Means; her 3 grandchildren who she adopted after the death of her daughter Emma, Dr. Darris Means, Brandon Gordon, Jared Means; other grandchildren, Patrick and Jennifer Means, Tiffani Smiley, Marcus Irby, Keith, Tawanna and Timothy Means, Lawanda Means, Stefanie Smith-Miller, Keith McIntyre and Dr. Tonya Price who was a bonus granddaughter/niece; 10 great- grands, including Porschia Means who was reared in the home; 3 great-great granddaughters; and a host of other family members and friends.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 12:00 noon at Monks Grove Baptist Church. Burial will be in the Upper Shady Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.

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Cheryl Klinginsmith planted 5 trees in memory of Josephine Means . - February 22, 2025

Plant trees for Josephine Means

Tom Brosnan sent Serene Lily Basket for Josephine Means - February 22, 2025

Charley Warr planted 10 trees in memory of Josephine Means . - February 21, 2025

Chelsea Warr planted 5 trees in memory of Josephine Means . - February 21, 2025

Josephine was a quiet, meek and humble woman with some amazing qualities. (1) She was all about family! She seldom, if ever, forgot family birthdates. Sometimes she could even tell you what the weather was like or some event that took place on your birthdate. (2) She was always happy to be surrounded by family and friends. She looked forward to the Saturday or Sunday afternoon visits and the laughs and reminiscing. (3) She loved gardening! Her flower beds were her pride and joy. She would share her bulbs with me from time to time. (4) She was a wonderful mother-in-law. She welcomed me into the family and was always willing to do anything she could to help me if I needed her help. She babysat my children when needed, even though they would upset her when they would pick her treasured flowers without permission. 😃 It is hard to imagine life without her presence! 😢

Janice Means

Condolences to the family of Josephine Means.

Brenda Brannon Campbell

On behalf Mr.J.Means & his lovely wife Janice l send my prayers & condolences in the passing of Ms. Means.May the Lord grant each of you a special peace on tomorrow. We love you!! Rosa B.Willingham

Rosa B.Willingham

Prayers 🙏🤲🙏 and condolences to the Means and Thompson family. Ms Phine was a sweet, kind and humble person.She always had a smile on her face whenever she was in your presence. She will be missed by her family and friends. The Woodruff, Vernon and Austin family's

Trudy Woodruff

Ms Josephine's sweet spirit was a blessing. I was able to spend a little time with her after the effects of Hurricane Helene. Just like always, she was kind and had a sense of humor. Thank you Ms Josephine for your sweetness and for sharing your daughter (Elaine) with the Smith Family. My sincere condolences to the Means/Thompson Family. Ms. Josephine is at rest with the Lord.

Vickie Moss

Condolences to the Means and Thompson family

Donna Brannon

Miss Means was a very sweet lady. She help my family and was a very good neighbor! She will be missed... Roy Lyles |

Roy Lyles

My condolences 💐 to the Thompson and Mean's family.♥️ From Mary Gilliam Rogers

Mary Rogers

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

J.W. Woodward Funeral Home | Spartanburg, SC