Josephine Tolbert

Josephine “‘Granny Jo” Tolbert was born May 19th 1940, in Chicago IL to Myrtle Beale and father who both preceded her in death. “Granny Jo” met and married Thomas Tolbert in 1958 in Chicago, IL until he preceded her in death. She later married Curtis Johnson which also preceded her in death. “Granny Jo” attended Doolittle Elementary School and later attended Hyde Park High school. At early age Josephine “Granny Jo” Tolbert accepted Christ and joined 44th street Baptist Church where her faith journey began. “Granny Jo” continued her spiritual walk at New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church under three generations of Thurston’s. Ultimately “Granny Jo” regained faith at Mount Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of late Bishop Charles Jones Sr. Under his leadership, she was one of the founding members of Rose of light Missionary Baptist Church until her health failed, where Jasper C. Edwards is now pastor. “Granny Jo” was committed to the church it was evident through her many years of service. “Granny Jo” served faithfully in numerous leadership roles including head choir directress, Sunday school teacher and Armed Trustee( lol). Josephine “Granny Jo” Tolbert was a hard-working woman who has he held various positions throughout her life. Her employment included work with the United States Postal Office, R&R Donnelly and Sons, and she also worked as meter maid for The City of Chicago. “Granny Jo” served decades as a precinct captain of the 700 block of 54th place. She was also a security expert and dedicated plenty of her time to Chicago Commons and the Chicago Board of Education. Granny Jo” was known for her strong leadership, love for music, and passion for learning God's word. In many church services she often sang “I Won’t Complain”. In addition to her professional and community service “Granny Jo” was a distinguished leader in a fraternal organization. She served honorably as Worthy Grand Matron of The order of Calanthes for over 10 years with dignity, empathy, and commitment. Outside of her many responsibilities “Granny Jo” embraced life joys to the fullest she loved to laugh and had a beautiful smile. One of her joys was the casino, and the excitement and fellowship they brought her. Another one her joys was going out to dine with family and love one’s, we all know she loved some French fries. “Granny Jo” will be always and forever be remembered as a woman of unwavering faith, strength, and compassion. Her life reflected dedication to God, church, family, and community. Her legacy will live on through all who was blessed to know HER. GRANNY will be deeply missed and forever cherished. Josephine “Granny Jo” Tolbert eternal life began on December 8th, 2025. “Granny Jo” leaves to cherish in her precious memories brother /Cousin Edward (Ed) Beale, sister Pauline Harris, two daughters Debra Tolbert-Jones (Micheal deceased), and Robin Tolbert. 4 grandchildren Michael (Hasan) Jones, Rae’Netta (Tony Aka Santa Claus), Rakshanda and Sch’Avon. Eight great grandchildren Semaj, Jamari, Julius, Jacobi, Jaiden, Jordan, Jaron, Jaide(my Angel) and Kymistri. Five great-great grandchildren Kahlil, Ka’lani, Kyrie ,Kamari, and Kahari. Three God daughters Carol(Niecy) Griffin, Asia, Jeanetta (Christopher) Edwards. Childhood friend Miss Myra Bryson. Minister Kenneth Harris(nephew), Minister Shaquita Harris (niece). Granny Joe also leaves behind a host of niece’s nephews, cousins and adopted grandchildren y'all all know who you are.

Josephine Tolbert

May 19, 1940 - December 8, 2025