Rev. Josephine Smalls Mitchell

On Wednesday evening, October 8, 2025, our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Reverend Josephine S. Mitchell, peacefully answered God’s call and entered eternal rest.

Born on August 30, 1946, in Colleton County, South Carolina, Josephine was the second child of the late Mr. Bennie Smalls, Sr. and Mrs. Elizabeth W. Smalls. She was educated in the public schools of Colleton County, and after graduation she moved to New York in pursuit of new opportunities.

While in New York, she met the love of her life, the late Mr. Seymour Mitchell. They were united in holy matrimony on July 8, 1968, and from their union, one cherished daughter was born.

Josephine was a devoted homemaker and worked diligently as a seamstress. She was employed for several years at Levi’s Inc. in Beaufort until its closing, and later at Vesta Industries of Walterboro. With unwavering determination and entrepreneurial spirit, she helped establish S&J Detail Shop, faithfully serving the community for over 30 years until her retirement.

A woman of deep faith and compassion, Josephine touched countless lives through her ministry, kindness, and unwavering love for her family and community.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents; her husband, Seymour Mitchell; sisters, Carrie B. Chisolm and Lillian White; and her godson, Timothy Chisolm.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory, her devoted daughter, Karen M. Jenkins (Jeffery); granddaughter, Denitia M. (Kevin) Sheppard-Mack, Whitney Jones, Amber M. (Kassun) Lucas, and Bre’Asia Jenkins; grandson, Jamie (Nykeia) Smalls; seven great-grandchildren; two loving brothers, Bennie (Gloria) Smalls, Jr. and McKenzie Smalls; sister-in-law, Elnoria Mitchell; Godson, Courtney (Sophia) Chisolm; lifelong friends, Mary C. Williams and Janie Smalls and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, church family, and cherished friends.

Reverend Josephine S. Mitchell’s life was a testament to faith, family, and service. Though she is no longer with us physically, her legacy of love, strength, and grace will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.

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