Josette Sumter

Josette Christine Sumter

July 19, 1968 - February 4, 2025

Josette Christine Sumter, affectionately known as Josie, was born on July 19, 1968, in the heart of North Philadelphia Richard Allen Homes. As the second child of the late Joseph Sumpter Jr. and Terrie Torrence (Franklin), she was raised with strong values, resilience, and an enduring love for her community a love that would define her life.

A proud graduate of Benjamin Franklin High School, Josie began a lifelong commitment to serving the youth immediately after graduation. For 38 years, she worked within the Philadelphia public school system a place where her passion for helping children flourished. She began her journey in the school district as a line cook and, through years of dedication and hard work, retired as a janitor cleaner. Josie touched the lives of countless students, whom she lovingly referred to as her “kids” or ”babies”. It was here, where she formed her extended family among her colleagues, and students, that Josie spirit shone the brightest & was contagiously uplifting anytime you seen her. 

Deeply rooted in her community, Josie was a stalwart representative of the Richard Allen Homes. She was a familiar, beloved presence throughout North Philadelphia and was always ready with a warm smile, a kind word, or her signature car horn greeting. If you ever heard a cheerful “hey baby” echoing down the street, you knew it was Josie, beeping her way into someone's heart until she had their full attention.

Beyond her professional dedication, Josies life was a tapestry of love, laughter, and community service. A true kid at heart, Joise even spent her free time serving as a camp director, ensuring that neighborhood children could enjoy safer, enriching pastime providing opportunities for joy and growth that reflected the dreams she once held for herself. Whether she was driving (or walking, with her famously knocked knees), laughing until her sides ached, helping a child in need, or indulging in her favorite seafood (especially crab legs), Josie was the life of every gathering and the glue that kept her family together.

Josie vibrant personality and boundless love were also evident in her personal interests. A devoted fan of Luther Vandross and Ram Squad, and a passionate supporter of the Philadelphia Eagle she knew, with all her heart, that they would win the Super Bowl this year she left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her.

Her legacy lives on through her cherished family. Josie lovingly raised three beautiful children Antonio Johnson (with his partner, daughter in law Shay) Shadonna Travers, and Iyonna Vogues and welcomed daughter-in-love April Adam into her close-knit circle. She also leaves behind treasured grandchildren Jameer Johnson, Shakayla Cooper, Kahyr Johnson, and Sarah Ford; her devoted mother Terrie Franklin & Aunt Earlene(Tory)Green; her beloved oldest brother Ronnell Sumter (with his partner, Sister-in-law Carla) and her God sister Angie; her niece Jamera Bigby and nephew Ronnell Tabb-Sumter; great nephew Camron Tabb; and great nieces Chole and Ava Bigby, along with a host of cousins, friends, and loved ones who all carry her light within them. 

Josie was preceded in death by her grandmother, Maggie Torrence; her uncle, Johnnie Torrence; her niece, Kia Shanice Tabb, her bonus father, Roosevelt Franklin; her aunt, Elisha “Annie” Torrence; and her dear beloved younger brother, Kabaru Sumpter.

Josie  infectious spirit whether showcased in her late-night and early-morning check-in calls and texts messages, her booming laughter, or her unmistakable car horn ”brought joy and unity to every corner of her world. Her unwavering way of displaying love and ensuring that everyone felt included will continue to inspire all who had the privilege to know her.

Rest well, Queen. Your radiant light, passion for life, and boundless love will forever guide us until we meet again.

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