Josephine Ann Stapleton was born on May 16,1954 to Lillie Mae Stapleton, and Clarence Starter. Josephine was born and raised in Saint Louis, MO. Both parents preceded her in death. Her older brother, Richard Stapleton, Sr. preceded her in death in 2013. Her sisters Darlene Stapleton-Coats (Lamar) and Patricia Stapleton-Clark reside in Saint Louis, MO.

Josephine birthed two sons, Lamont Dewayne Stapleton (Evelyn) and Michael Terrell Stapleton (Falisha). She mothered a third son, Jefferey Allan Canaday (Idocia). Josephine was a loving and devoted mother. She loved her sons with everything she had in her.

Josephine was educated at St. Marks Elementary, St. Alphonso Rock High School (2 years) and graduated from Central High School. She continued her education at Deaconess College of Nursing graduating as a Licensed Practical Nurse in 1976. Josephine dedicated her life to nursing, with pediatric nursing as her specialty. She loved working with all of the beautiful babies. Josephine worked at Deaconess Hospital for 16 years. She continued her career at People’s Clinic in the pediatric department before retiring in 2011. 

Josephine professed her faith in Christ at an early age. She rededicated her life to Christ in 2017. Sister Josie joined Maranatha Church International under the leadership of Pastors Samuel and Natalie Earl. She was loved and known for her warm hugs. She enjoyed praise and worship and glorifying God. Josie would say, “God is Good and He’s Busy All the Time.”

Josephine was a very loving, kind, and giving person. Always willing to help and care for those around her. She departed this life on Monday, November 15, 2021. She will be greatly missed. 

To cherish her memory and celebrate her life, Josie leaves a devoted and loving family including her sons Lamont Stapleton (Evelyn), Michael Stapleton (Falisha), Jefferey Canaday (Idocia), three grandsons Tyrell, Tyrell/Baby T, and Jace Canaday born 12/1/2021, two sisters Darlene Stapleton-Coats (Lamar) and Patricia Stapleton-Clark, one aunt, Adell Walker, a special nephew and 2 nieces: Phillip, Natalie Chanel, and Lillian Marie, two special cousins Terry and Gary Hamlin, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.