Josephine Marie “Josie” Woodall (Simmons) age 81, passed away on September 12, 2024, in Taylorville, Illinois.  Born in Springfield, Illinois, and growing up in Bulpitt, she lived a life marked by devotion to her community, family and faith.

Josie married the love of her life, Jim Woodall, in 1966. She is survived by her loving sons, Jeff (Kelly) Woodall and Jim (Jennifer) Woodall as well as her sister-in-law Brenda Hamell, brothers Chuck (Sally) and John Simmons, and sister Linda (Bob) Broverman.  She was the proud grandmother to her 5 grandsons Garrett, Chase, Trevor, Zack, and Bode Woodall and devoted aunt to nieces Monica, Anita, Angie, Lori, Amy, Whitney and nephews Charlie, Tony, John and Quinn.  Josie worked at First Trust Bank and Taylorville Savings and Loan for over 25 years where she enjoyed helping those in her community.  She was a long-standing member and volunteer at St. Mary’s Catholic Church as well as Catholic Daughters of Americas where she participated actively and formed lasting relationships. 

Josie served many roles including as a devoted wife, mother, aunt, friend and volunteer but was most proud of being called “Grandma Jo” by her five grandsons.  She enjoyed cooking for her family, spending time with her grandsons, and helping her family whenever she could.  Those who had the pleasure of enjoying a piece of her fried chicken, a plate of her spaghetti, or a bowl of her homemade tortellini can attest that she made everything with love.

She is preceded in death by her mother Ellen Simmons, her husband R. James Woodall and her brother-in-law Allen Hamell.

Josie’s legacy of kindness and dedication to her faith and family will be remembered by all who knew her.  She will be deeply missed.

The Woodall family would like to express their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Stephanie and her staff at Carriage Crossing for taking such good care of Josie.

A funeral mass for Josie will take place at 11:00a.m. on Monday, September 16, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville with Fr. Piotr Kosk officiating.  The visitation will be held one hour prior to the mass in the church and the burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.