Josie B. McClain
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Josie B. McClain Henrietta: Friday, June 16, 2023 at age 88. Predeceased by her husband, Alexander “Buck” McClain, parents, Alex Cooper and Savanna Pryor; brothers, Eddie Pryor, TJ Pryor and LC White. She is survived by her loving and devoted son, Noel Alexander (Karin) McClain; many loving family and dear friends. Josie was actively involved with The CAP book (now Children Awaiting Parents: Donald J. Corbett Adoption Agency) for over forty years. In the early 70’s, Josie was an original board member and at one point was acting president. Her passion for children and finding them homes went all across the country including the White House. Josie was an incredible resource for young black children and helped many be adopted in interracial homes. She was a reformer and helped to change rules and regulations when it came to adoption. Josie was a professional caregiver for several prominent families in the Rochester area over the years. She quickly became a part of their households and always considered them family. Josie loved gardening, animals, nature, singing and spending time with her friends and family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Josie’s celebration of life will be held Tuesday, June 27th at 11:00 AM at Vay-Schleich & Meeson 1075 Long Pond Road. Committal prayers for Josie and Buck will follow at 12:30 PM at Maplewood Cemetery, 150 Middle Road. (Please meet at the cemetery). For more information and to sign her online guestbook, visit www.meesonfamily.com
Josie, the world has truly lost a great woman. You will be missed.
Josie, I miss you so much. I stop myself from running up to see you. I love you sweet Lady.
Josie was a wonderful amazing woman. She will be dearly missed Love Joe & Linda Sewar
Aunt Josie was a member of our entire Soule family. In brief, she brought so much, warmth, joy, color and soul to our lives…. While we are going to greatly miss her dearly, the light of her memory will shine brightly forever in our hearts and minds… love you so much Aunt Josie!! We are so lucky to have had you all these wonderful years!! ❤️—Davy Soule
Josie will forever hold a dear place in my heart. I never knew about her role in the larger community, but I am not surprised to learn that there were far more people graced by her warm and sunny spirit than I could have known as a child. What a blessing her presence was in the world! May she be rewarded with peace and joy.
Josie was one of the original members of the Rochester chapter of the Panel of American Women, sharing her story and educating audiences about discrimination and racism, starting in 1972. She used her humor and compassion, and people listened. The world is a less interesting place with her gone, but I’m glad she is reunited with Buck, her parents and her siblings. Noel and Karin, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
I will always remember Josie McClain as a woman who never stopped giving. Her humor, her thoughtfulness for her family and her friends were always at the forefront of every action that she took. I remember her deeply when I was struggling with a new position she was so kind and so gracious she said to me to stay calm, give it time and to always smile. I thank you as those words have stayed with me throughout my life and have made such a difference in every activity that I participate in. My thoughts and prayers continue for Karin and Noel and all of her additional family and friends as she will truly be missed.
At last you , Kate, Coot, Josie, and Buck will be able to sit around the table. You be able to tag along with your mother delivering babies again. Johnny & Florence
Josie and her "stories" enlightened the members of the Panel of America Women and all of the audiences we inspired and educated with our personal stories. She was one of a kind and we were all privileged to know her and benefit from her wisdom and love. It was a blessing to see her at our local reunion several years ago. She had the same spirit and laughter we so fondly remembered. She will be missed. Blessings to her beloved Noel and to all those who loved her. xo