James Larry Josey

Beloved husband, father, grand-father, great-grandfather, teacher, and friend, Dr. James “Larry” Josey, 86, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2022.  

Born in Laurel, MS, he was the only child of the late Fred and Lurlene Matthews Josey.  Larry received his BS and PhD from Mississippi State University and his Masters from LSU.  He spent two years with the Army Corp of Engineers, twenty years with various Engineering firms in Mississippi and thirty years teaching Civil Engineering -- first at the University of Missouri and then retired after teaching more than two decades at Clemson University.  At the University of Missouri, he was chosen as an “Outstanding Teacher” and was a finalist for the similar recognition at Clemson.  When he retired from Clemson, he was awarded the title of “Professor Emeritus.”

A member of Seneca Presbyterian Church, Larry sang in the choir and taught Sunday School.  He had served as an elder and deacon in various Presbyterian Churches during his life.

Dr. Josey was predeceased by his first wife, Sarah Kate.  He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Ann Robinson Josey; sons, J. Rene Josey (Marty) of Florence and Russ G. Josey of Texas; daughter, Tanya Josey Fouts (Ray) of Ohio.  He is also survived by step-daughters Jo Carol Mitchell-Rogers (Eric) of Greenville and Kathryn M. Johnson (Grant) of Tennessee.  “Papa Jo” is survived by Grandsons Harrison (Maggie) and Matt (SaraLouise) Josey, Tavish Josey (Marlee), Jordan and Logan Fouts, Lance (Sarah) and Ethan Rogers, and great-granddaughter GemmaLouise Josey.

A private graveside service will be held at Old Stone Church Cemetery and a Service of Resurrection will be held Saturday, April 9, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at Foothills Presbyterian Community, Easley, SC.  In lieu of flowers, the family ask that contributions be made to Helping Hands of Clemson, helpinghandsofclemson.org.