Josephine Smith

Josephine “Jo” Smith, 90, of Glen Allen, Virginia, peacefully passed away on June 15th, 2026. She was born on April 1st, 1936, in Louisville, Kentucky, to her beloved parents, the late Cleo and Waller Grogan.

Jo attended Randolph-Macon Woman’s College for her undergraduate studies and later earned her graduate degree from Johns Hopkins University. She began her career in a laboratory in Baltimore, Maryland, where she worked in chromosome research. She later worked as an allergy technician for Catlett Allergy.

Throughout her life, Jo adored and tenderly cared for her family and formed many lifelong friendships within all areas of her life. She generously gave her time to volunteer with the residents of a nearby adult home, Meals on Wheels, Bon Secours Hospice, P.A.L. (Prevent a Litter), and many other causes. She loved all people and animals and had a special gift for friendship and compassion.

When Courtney and Julie were young, the family lived in Stratford Hills, where Jo and Howard made many lasting friendships in the neighborhood. She loved playing tennis with Howard and her friends and watching her daughters’ many activities.

Jo loved music and owned and played a harp for many years. She attended a harp education retreat for several summers in Maine and often remarked that part of Maine was where her soul lived.

Jo enjoyed spending time on the back deck of her home in Goochland, where she loved the peaceful view of the pond. She took great care in tending their many plants, flowers, and bird feeders. She also sang in the church choir at both St. Bridget Catholic Church and Grace Episcopal Church in Goochland.

All her life, the family had cats and dogs as pets, and she assisted many more strays in their time of need. The family pets were always treated as members of the family, and they were always rescues, reflecting the compassion and love that were such a natural part of Jo’s life.

As she aged, Jo never lost her joy, positive outlook, or the happy excitement she felt when she saw one of her children, grandchildren, dear and devoted friends, or even strangers. She loved fiercely and continued to exude joy, kindness, and loving peace to everyone she came across. Her life exemplified the meaning of a servant’s heart, and her love and generosity came naturally to her and were never forced or contrived. She was never negative, never angry, and was nothing but sunshine to all who knew her. Everyone who knew her remarked on her extraordinary kindness and love, and she will be cherished by so many for the rest of our lives. Thoughts and memories of her will always brighten our days.

Jo is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Howard Smith; her daughters whom she adored, Courtney Karam and Julie (Evan) Rekant; and her beloved grandchildren, Taylor (Ryan) Polto, Abby Karam, John Karam, Ethan Rekant, and Adelyn Rekant.

Jo’s celebration of life church service, followed by a visitation luncheon, will be on July 11th, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Episcopal Church, 2955 River Road West, Goochland, VA 23063. She is in the care of Norman Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Jo’s memory to Bon Secours Hospice of Richmond (Bon Secours Hospice Donation), Virginia or P.A.L. (Prevent a Litter) on Cary Street in Carytown, Richmond, Virginia. (PAL Richmond)