Josephine Whitt

Josephine "Josie" Whitt (nee Ellis), 83, of Vermilion, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, following a lengthy illness.

She was born on November 16, 1941, in Logan, West Virginia, and had made Vermilion her home for the past 54 years after relocating from her home state of West Virginia.

Josie worked as a bus driver for Vermilion Local Schools, retiring after 18 years of dedicated service. She continued her commitment to the community by volunteering for over two decades with AARP, assisting with tax preparation.

A devoted member of Firelands Baptist Church in Wakeman, Josie found joy in simple pleasures. She loved cooking, gardening, canning, and making jelly, and she took great pride in caring for her flowers and yard.

She is survived by her son, James (Deborah) Whitt of Vermilion; daughter, Kristi (Kevin) Mahan of Vermilion; cherished granddaughter, Alexis Clemons; sister, Jessie Ileene Ellis of Chapmanville, WV; brothers, Buster Walter Ellis of Chapmanville, Darvin Ellis of Pineville, WV, and William Ellis of High Shoals, NC; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James "Jim" Whitt; her parents, Wilson and Anna (nee Workman) Ellis; her brothers, Anse, Roscoe, and Douglas Ellis; and her sister, Easter DeBerry.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Monday, June 16, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Firelands Baptist Church, 12320 OH-113, Wakeman, with interment to follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Vermilion.

Online condolences may be shared at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.