Marie Attaway Obituary

Mrs. Marie Josephine Attaway, 99, known affectionately as Josephine, was a beacon of light and love to all who knew her. Born on October 25, 1926, in Honey Creek Township, Crawford County, Illinois, she was a cherished daughter, wife, mother, and friend. After a life rich with devotion and service, Josephine was called home to the Lord on March 15, 2026, in Robinson, Illinois, after a valiant journey with Alzheimer's Dementia.

Raised by her parents, Allen E. Smith and Ghloe Irene Smith, Josephine grew up understanding the value of hard work and the importance of family. Her early years were spent in the simplicity of country life, which shaped her into a resilient and resourceful woman. Though her formal education concluded after the eighth grade, Josephine's wisdom and knowledge extended far beyond the walls of any classroom.

Josephine married the love of her life on December 23, 1945, Roy Newman Attaway, and together they built a foundation of faith and love that would stand the test of time, until Roy's death January 17, 1990. Their union was blessed with three wonderful children: Randy Attaway, Robinson, IL; Roger (Diana) Attaway, Vincennes, IN; and Pamela "Pam" (Dave) Garrard, Robinson, IL Her grandchildren meant the world to her; Tori Thurman of Robinson, IL; Justin (Tiffany) Attaway, Robinson, IL; Jennifer (Jon) Skaggs of Robinson, IL; Tara Attaway, Robinson, IL; Jodie Garrard of St. Louis, MO; and Bryant Attaway of Flora, IL were Granny's Fav's; that is until her great grandchildren came along and those are: Harper Attaway, Robinson, IL; Layton Seaney, Robinson, IL; Braxton O'Neal, Robinson, IL; Dayton Thurman, Indianapolis, IN; Patience Attaway, Robinson, IL; Payton Skaggs, Robinson, IL; Connor Skaggs, Robinson, IL; Dani Rae Attaway, Flora, IL and Ezrae Attaway, Flora, IL; And as if those weren't enough to dote over, great great granddaughter Violet Seaney arrived to complete the family album. Siblings who survive Josephine are Ms. Shirley Warren, Casey, IL; Mrs. Barbara Sharp, Effingham, IL; Mrs. Marjorie Denton, Anderson, IN.

Josephine embraced her role as a homemaker with grace and dedication, nurturing her family with every ounce of her being. Her home was a testament to her caring nature, always immaculate and welcoming. Josephine's hands were rarely still, tending to her garden with a gentle touch or crafting delicious meals and baked treats that would bring comfort and joy to her family and friends. Her commitment to her faith was unwavering, hardly missing a Sunday Church Meeting and living out her Christian beliefs through acts of kindness and charity.

Family who has preceded Josephine in death, besides her parents and her husband, are her Brothers, Carl, Burl, Charles "Buster", Donald Ray, Jesse D., Allen E. Jr. Smith; Sisters Mrs. Betty Ulrey and Mrs. Norma Rice

Josephine was a woman of great virtue, her life characterized by selflessness and faith. She was a guiding force, inspiring those around her with her steadfastness and gentle spirit. Josephine's love for her family was immense, and she instilled in them the values of compassion, integrity, and the importance of maintaining a close-knit family bond.

On Saturday March 21, 2026, at 12:00 noon, we will celebrate the life of Marie Josephine Attaway whose ninety-nine years, four months and eighteen days of life should inspire each of us to do our best each day, help others in every way and not let the hardships of daily life get us down. Pastor Valerie Vermilya will officiate the services and earth burial will follow the funeral next to her beloved Roy in the Eaton/Grand Prairie Cemetery just a few hundred yards South of her home. Visitation will be Saturday from 10:00 am until the time of services at 12:00 noon at Pulliam Funeral Home in Robinson, IL.

Josephine's family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Grand Prairie United Church of Christ with envelopes available at the funeral home.

As we celebrate the life of Marie Josephine Attaway, we are reminded of the profound impact she had on those fortunate enough to have known her. Her memory will be forever cherished as a testament to a life lived with purpose and love. Josephine's journey on this earth may have concluded, but her spirit continues to shine brightly in the hearts of her family and all who were touched by her kindness. We take solace in the promise of eternal life and trust that she now rests in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father, free from the earthly constraints that once held her.

Josephine's legacy is one of unwavering faith, boundless love, and the purest form of selflessness. As we bid farewell to this remarkable woman, we do so with grateful hearts, confident that her memory will continue to guide and inspire us for generations to come. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the love she shared will remain a guiding light forever.