Josephine Settles

A living testimony, Josephine Jordan was born in Ruleville, MS on February 10,1936. She was raised in Cleveland, MS most of her life by her parents Johnnie Jordan and Susie Crawford. Having many brothers and sisters ,she was the baby of the family. Josephine loved church as a little girl and was baptized at an early age. Josephine, loved to be outdoors, playing outside amongst friends. Many times neighbors would have to remind her the sun had went down. After receiving her education in Mississippi, Josephine traveled to Texas, making Houston her home. Soon after, her and James Settles married and created a beautiful family. Together they raised fourteen children. That have blessed them with 37 grandchildren. Josephine and James made sure the children knew the love of God and instilled in them the importance of education. Josephine was a full time mother and wife. When the children aged, Josephine became self employed. Managing homes of many families in the greater Houston and surrounding areas.

Josephine “Jo” Settles, had a welcoming spirit and a big smile to match. Josephine had an anointing on her life and you could see it in her walk with God. Josephine as a young mother caring for her children , attended Ebenezer Baptist Church in the historical Fifth Ward of Houston. She rededicated her life to the Lord. She loved to sing in the church choir. After relocating with her family to the southside of Houston, the family joined God’s Holy Church. God’s Holy would become a cornerstone and safe haven to worship and grow in God to the entire Settles family and there lineage. Josephine loved the Lord, attending church and serving wherever she could. Josephine’s firm foundation in the Lord, lead her to being a true disciple of the Lord. Josephine would go on to be the prayer warrior of her family. Being the matriarch of her family, she served to be many of their anchors and support through trials and tribulations. Josephine “Big Mama”, “Granny”, she was lovingly called, by her large family. Josephine being a conversationalist and always having an open door to anyone in need, loved company and a good time. Her family knows her to always be the one To Call to Prayer at every family gathering. Josephine was always willing to share an encouraging word and express her thankfulness.

After retiring, Josephine donated most of her time to God. Josephine was an humanitarian for the Lord. Josephine earned many certificates and awards from numerous churches and organizations for her good deeds and time spent serving the community. She was a dedicated member to Sheltering Arms. Josephine became a member of Lakewood Church. At Lakewood she joined Young At Heart Ministries and donated her time when called upon. Josephine could also be found witnessing and having intercessory prayer, being a lifeline to those in need feeling the weight of life’s hardships and struggles.

Josephine in her later age would join the senior citizen group participating in activities. She also spent a lot of time with family and caring for family members. Every morning Josephine would wake with saying “Good morning Jesus and the Heavenly host.” Attending ,The Message Church and family gatherings is what she loved to do. She was witty and loved to laugh. In her past time she would watch soap operas or do puzzles. She was known for her runway fashion like clothing and the fancy hats to match.

Josephine Settles departed peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on September 10,2024. As a result of her generous spirit and pleasant personality she is loved and will be missed by many. Her Christian life was as beautiful as her smile and her influence will forever remain in the lives of all that knew her. She is preceded in death by her husband James Settles all her siblings, four grandsons, and many loving uncles, aunts, and relatives.

She leaves to cherish her memory and continue her legacy of faith to her children; Mary Charles, James (Addie) Settles, Bobby Pickrom, Rozell Jordan, Benny Settles, Shirley Swan, Ruby (Aaron) Hodge, Brenda Williams, Robert (Debra) Settles, Beverly (Clarence) Griffin, Craig Settles, Paulette Harrison, Cal Settles and Lois (Wilbert) Timmons. “

To God Be The Glory for The Things He Hath Done.