Mrs. Josie Anderson

Josie was born on June 16, 1923 in Glenoma, Washington and was the daughter of Grover and Maggie (Dutton) Bowen. She graduated high school and on July 20, 1938 she married Otto Orvel Anderson in Lewis County. They had two sons, Eugene and Jerry and resided in the Tacoma area.

Josie worked at Collins Elementary School as a kitchen cook where her soul mission was that no child went without a full belly. After her retirement from the school district she volunteered for Good Samaritan Hospital in the gift shop and also volunteered to count votes during election season.

She had many hobbies and passions that filled her time outside of work and volunteering. She enjoyed gardening, canning fruits and vegetables, her chickens and her dogs; all of which were named Schwartz. She also had a heart for stray cats of whom she adopted and cared for. Josie loved Country Music, and iris, forget-me-nots and freesia were some of her favorite flowers.

Of all the passions she enjoyed in life, Josie’s greatest love was her family and her dear friends. Time with her husband and her two sons and the lifetime of memories they made were some of the most cherished experiences that she held dear. Later in life becoming a grandma, a great grandma and great-great grandma gave her great joy and purpose. She also held a special place in her heart for her enormous circle of friends; people who had touch her heart and she theirs. One of her favorite things was having friends and families at the house, sharing stories and a slice of pie, cake or even a cookie; whatever goodie she had on hand.

Josie possessed all the qualities in life that made our world a better place. She was kind, honest and inspirational. Many thought of her as a second mother and her influence encourage them to grow into strong influential adults. She truly was a special soul who will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Josie will be laid to rest next to her beloved, Otto Anderson, at Rainey Valley Cemetery in Glenoma, Washington. Graveside service will be held on April 6, 2024 at 11:00 am. Brown Mortuary is handling the arrangements.