Finis Harrell Josey

Born July 10, 1924, Dr. Finis Harrell Josey, was the son of Grover Cleveland Josey and Letha Harrell Josey. He was born in the old Reed Road Josey home site. Harrell attended Starkville High School graduating in 1942, though enlisted with the United States Air Force while still a senior. At the age of 19, he distinguished himself by extraordinary accomplishment completing 50 missions as a B-24 bomber pilot and captain during World War II. While serving his country, he received the Air Force's highest honor The Distinguished Flying Cross as well as the Air Medal for meritorious achievement. During his military service years, he met his wife of 61years, Betty Orth Josey, who was serving as a Marine. Following his military career, Harrell attended and graduated from Mississippi State University serving as member of Sigma Pi International Fraternity, and later attended the School of Veterinary Medicine at Auburn University where he served as President of his Class earning his degree in 1951. Dr. Josey was a pioneer in the field of large animal practice in Oktibbeha County, paving the way for many dairy and cattle farmers. In addition to his vet practice, he also grew the family dairy farm on Reed Road as well as established the first fast food restaurant in Starkville, The Mug & Cone. His career included numerous local business and real estate ventures. Over his lifetime, he served on numerous public, professional, and private boards, including the Miss Veterinary Medical Association as President, the Starkville Board of Alderman, American Public Life, and The Salvation Army. Harrell was a lifetime member of First Baptist Church of Starkville. Dr. Josey is survived by his wife, Betty Orth Josey, and their four children, Stephanie Josey Ramsey (spouse, Heyward) of Lubbock, TX; David Harrell Josey (spouse, Jane) of Germantown, TN; Joel Dell Josey (spouse, Barbara) of Starkville; Jimmy Jon Josey (spouse, Donna) of Jackson, MS; ten grandchildren; Chip Reed, Chad Reed, Castle Reed Cuevas, Fair Josey Wicker, Chanee Reed Carlson, Jonathan Josey, Rebecca Josey, Taylor Josey, Davis Josey, and Luke Josey; four great grandchildren; Jace Reed, Hudson Cuevas, Dylann Grace Reed, and Ethan Tanner Carlson. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am on Saturday, October 16, 2010 at First Baptist Church Starkville, immediately followed by the service at 11:00 am. Memorial donations may be made to The Salvation Army.