Josephine Rathjen

Josephine Margaret Elliott Rathjen, 78, of Colonial Heights went to be with her Lord on October 31, 2012. Born in Henrico, Virginia, she was affectionately known as the "Rose of the South." She was predeceased by her mother, Violet O'Dell Brooks Elliott and father, John Strailey Elliott; her husband of 45 years, Gilbert Gordon Rathjen; her son, Christopher Lee Rathjen; her brother, John Elliott of Maryland; and her sister, Jacqueline Tarcen of Henrico. She was a graduate of Highland Springs High School and worked at the Federal Reserve Bank before becoming a homemaker for her family. She was an active member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy, most recently the Richmond Stonewall Jackson Chapter #1705. She loved learning about history and researching genealogy of her family. She is survived by her daughter, Debbie Lee Wessel and husband, Ed; granddaughter, Samantha Wessel; and her beloved Bichon "kids," Riley and Chenille. She was a beloved wife and mother and will be greatly missed. The family will receive friends from 6 to 7:00 p.m. Monday, November 5, 2012 in the Colonial Heights Chapel of the E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard. A memorial service will follow in the chapel at 7:00 p.m. Burial will be private.