Josephine Scarlett Maxwell

September 10, 2023 – August 27, 2026

Josephine “Josie” Scarlett Maxwell left this world peacefully in the arms of her mother in the early morning hours of August 27, 2026, following a devastating and tragic set of circumstances, just two weeks shy of her third birthday.

Josie came into this world “fast and furious”—a glimpse of the courageous and fighting spirit she would carry throughout her life. At just 19 days old, she faced her first battle with the heart condition SVT and was admitted to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. There, she gained a heart team who would help her through that first battle, and she was able to come home just as she turned one month old.

Once Josie was on the move, she was unstoppable. She showed everyone that her heart condition would never define her or hold her back. She was incredibly smart, fiercely independent, and always determined to do things her own way. She had a strong little personality and seemed to understand far more than her young age would suggest. Josie was a walking ray of sunshine, with an inner light and smile that was infectious to everyone who knew her. She spread joy, goofiness, and an undeniable love for life wherever she went.

Josie loved Moana, Sonic, Puppy Dog Pals, and The Lion King. She loved to sing and dance, play with her siblings and cousins, and spend time at the beach and pool. She loved going to the park and taking walks, blowing bubbles, spinning in circles, and imitating her mom and Cloey as they put on makeup. She found happiness in the simplest things and had a remarkable way of bringing that happiness to everyone around her.

Josie had an especially tender heart for animals and was, without a doubt, a dog lover. She had a special bond with her furry friends Bubz, Killuah, and Chewie, who were a beloved part of her little world. She loved being around them, and they loved her right back. Her gentle nature and love for animals were just another reflection of the enormous heart she carried inside her tiny body.

Above all, Josie was her mother’s best friend and sidekick. She was Morgan’s little shadow, always wanting to be right beside her, watching her, copying her, and joining in on whatever Mom was doing. Whether they were getting ready together, going somewhere, or simply spending an ordinary day at home, Josie had a way of turning even the most ordinary moments into memories that will be treasured forever. She wasn’t just Morgan’s daughter—she was her best friend, her little partner, and a piece of her heart walking around outside of her.

Josie is survived by her mother, Morgan Berg; her mother’s special friend, Stratton, lovingly known as “Strap”; her siblings, Johnathan, Jackson, and June Fabro; and her honorary Aunt Cloey Narcisso, all of the home.

Josie was surrounded by an extensive and loving family, including her Mugga, Tracy Davis; “Gogle,” Bryant Ogle; Papa Todd and Grandma Jenny Ryan; Grandpa Rick Berg and Grandma Sara Berg; Aunt Mackenzie (Mohamed); Aunt Madi (Alex) and cousins Amelia and Analeigh; Aunt Mel Mel; Aunt Katie; Aunt Maliya; Uncle Isaac; Uncle Jake; Uncle Quenton; Uncle Noah; and Uncle Hunter.

She was also blessed with her great-grandparents, Gigi Virgie and Pepaw Philip White, and Grandma Sandy Stockham, as well as her great-great-grandmother, Mamaw Betty Davis. There are many other extended family members and friends whose lives were touched by Josie’s beautiful spirit.

Josie was also lovingly cared for by her beloved babysitters, Amaya, Raegan, and Mady, who were an important part of her life and loved her dearly.

Josie’s family finds comfort in knowing that she was welcomed into Heaven by her Uncle Shawn Ryan and Papa Jerry Davis, who were waiting to wrap their arms around her.

Though Josie’s time on earth was far too short, the love and light she brought into this world will never be forgotten. Her smile, her laughter, her silliness, her independence, and her fierce little spirit will live on in everyone who had the privilege of loving her. She may have been small, but she left an immeasurable mark on the hearts of everyone who knew her.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of Josie’s life will take place on Thursday, September 3rd, with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. and services beginning at 12:00 p.m.

A special thank you to the incredible team in the CVICU at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, who cared for Josie on more than one occasion and fought alongside her and our family, including her doctors, Dr. Landry and Dr. Decker.

Josie was deeply loved, fiercely fought for, and will be missed beyond words. Her story does not end here. Her love, her legacy, and the light she brought into this world will live on forever.