Obituary of JOSEPHINE FITTEN

Josephine G. Fitten, of Camden, New Jersey was born in Perry, Georgia on May 5, 1927 to Oliver and Rosa Jackson Garmon. She was the fifth child of twelve children and was preceded in death by nine of her siblings. Josephine departed this life, Saturday, June 7, 2020. Her Journey in life was a road well traveled. "Jo" or "Phine" as she was affectionately known to family and friends was educated in the Perry, Georgia School System. Josephine was very smart, not only did she excel in her academics, but she was a good athlete. She played a number of sports and won several medals for track and field. Upon graduating from high school at the age of 16, she was chosen class valedictorian. Pursuing her passion for working with children, she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Fort Valley State University. Her professional career began as an English teacher at the Houston High School in Hudson County School System. She was a young energetic teacher who loved her students that included her younger siblings and other relatives. After relocating to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she continued her studies, earning a MSW in Social Work from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania in 1964. She worked many years in Homemaker Services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania before locating to Camden, New Jersey. Josephine was an adjunct professor at Rutgers University in Camden, New Jersey where she taught Intro to Psychology for 7 years before fulfilling her dream of becoming a certified Social Worker for Camden City School System, Special Services, providing help and services to troubled youths and families in need of help. She retired in 2001. On August 15, 1953 she married her love, James Fitten. During the 66.5 years of their marriage, they were blessed with one child: Michael James. Josephine was dedicated to God and a devoted wife and mother. She found much enjoyment spending time with family and friends. She especially love her precious grandchildren. She would go above and beyond to help them and she always made time for them. Some of her happiest times were during family gatherings. Together, Josephine and the late Rev. Dr. James E. Fitten, founded and established Shalom Baptist Church in Camden, New Jersey in 1981. As a faithful and devoted member of Shalom Baptist Church, Josephine was also a great first lady who exhibited the same dedication, conscientiousness, generosity, and grace that was typical of her other undertakings. She could be found every Sunday in her regular pew worshippping with her fellow worshippers with the air, dignity, and elegance that characterized her life. Her many activities included: Director of Youth Choir, sang with Senior, Youth and Fellowship Choirs, Bethany Baptist Association for Ministers Wives and numerous Church Ministries. She was remained a faithful member of Shalom Baptist Church until a decline in her health. Josephine found pleasure in creating floral arrangements, gardening, being an avid reader, and crossword puzzles. She was an enthusiastic gardener who could identify plants and flowers by their botanical names. The thing she enjoyed most in her leisure time was shopping. The phrase, " She looks like she stepped out of Vogue Magazine" is very appropriate when referring to Josephine. She was definitely a "fashionista." Her designer outfits, high-heels, and Out-of-This-World- Hats were "jaw-dropping." Though we mourn the death of this awesome light, we rejoice in the times we shared and the many positive ways she touched our lives. She will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her. Josephine G. Fitten leaves to cherish precious memories of her love: one son, Michael James (Sherene), one sister: Wanda Jean; one brother Jackie Garmon; two grandsons: Michael James II ans James Samuel; two granddaughters: Jannell and Dominique; one great-granddaughter: Angelina; mother-in-law: Rosemary; special niece: Marilyn P. Smith; her church family, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.