Josephine Atherton Finnen

Josephine Atherton Finnen, lovingly known as “Jo,” passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and devotion to family and community. A gifted storyteller with a warm sense of humor, Jo will be remembered most for the strength of her faith.

Jo was born on August 30, 1929, in Drakesboro, Kentucky, to the late Homer and Hettie Atherton. At the age of 13, she entered the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate at the Immaculate Convent in Joliet, Illinois in 1942, where she earned her degree in education. Although she felt called to leave the convent in 1953, the friendships she formed there remained a lasting and meaningful part of her life, and she stayed closely connected to her fellow sisters throughout the years.

She went on to dedicate her life to education, teaching at Catholic schools in Ohio before settling in Raleigh, North Carolina and receiving her Master’s degree. There, she taught at Jeffreys Grove Elementary School for 17 years, shaping young minds with patience, compassion, and wisdom.

Jo was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 53 years, Gerald Walter Finnen; her parents; her three sisters; her brother; and many of her dear friends and Sisters of St. Francis.

She is survived by her three children: Paul Edward Finnen and his wife Erin Finnen of Charlotte; Gwen Finnen Patterson of Raleigh; and Gerald Francis Finnen of Raleigh. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: William Gerald Patterson of Raleigh; Christopher Kershaw Patterson and his wife Lauren Nicole Patterson of High Point, North Carolina; Davis Atherton Finnen and his wife Catherine Taylor Finnen of Charleston, South Carolina; Emmy Frances Fleshood of New York, New York; and Elizabeth Hunter Fleshood of Charlotte. Also her Great Grandchildren: Paul Tate Finnen of Charleston and Weston Kershaw Patterson of High Point.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, April 1, at 12:00 p.m., followed by a Memorial Mass at 12:30 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 11401 Leesville Road, Raleigh, North Carolina. A private committal service will be held at Raleigh Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, by using the link below, under 'Donations'.

Jo’s life was a testament to faith, love, and service. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

If you would like to leave a favorite memory / story of Jo, or a message of condolence for her family, you may do so below, within 'Add a Memory'.