Josephine “GiGi” Mary Meade, 90, passed away on September 18, with her loving son Patrick by her side. Josephine was born and raised in Queens, NY, and not a drop of that city’s essence ever left her, despite never returning to live there. She met and married her one true love, Patrick J. Meade Sr., in the city, but they soon moved as Patrick Sr. was enlisted in the Navy. Josephine embraced the Navy life and loved to travel, making the most of all the experiences it offered her and her family.

Josephine and Patrick Sr. found their dream retirement home on Bells Island, NC, where they spent many years enjoying life with family and friends before Patrick Sr. was called home, breaking all our hearts. Josephine loved her home on Bells Island, especially sitting on the back porch and taking in the nature surrounding her. She enjoyed sewing and crafting, fishing, visiting the beach, and collecting pretty shells. She loved gardening until she could no longer do so, at which point she turned to nurturing beautiful trees.

Josephine was a joyful, happy soul whose laugh was infectious, and her love was deeper than the sea. She adored her grandchildren, teaching them all she knew and remaining close to them throughout her life. The blessing of becoming a great-grandma was incredibly special to her, and she cherished each of her many great-grandchildren as if they were the first. A love that is never-ending—that is Josephine!

Left to cherish Josephine’s memory are her sons, Michael D. Meade and Patrick J. Meade Jr.; her daughter, Susan A. Meade, and her husband, William S. Lanagan IV; and her grandchildren, Evelyn (David), Elisabeth (Seth), Lyndsey, Kelly, Angie, Christopher, Joseph, and William V, along with all her great-grandchildren, now, tomorrow, and forever.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Currituck Animal Services and Control Shelter.