Josie Coates

Josie Coates, aka Frances, was the first born of eleven children into the family of Ennis and Annie Kate Bell. She was born on September 24, 1939, in Warrenton, GA.

Josie attended school at Warrenton Elementary and Warren County High School. She was married to the late Major Coates and out of their union they were blessed with two beautiful daughters, Annie and Joan. Josie was also married to Clayborn Maddux and out of their union they were also blessed with two children, their son, Clayborn Coates Maddux and their daughter, Rena Coates Maddux.

Josie lived in Brooklyn, NY, for most of her life and worked as a visiting nurse in the healthcare field until she retired.

Josie’s transition is preceded by her parents, her sister, Ruby Bell Hudgeon, her brothers; Charlie G. Bell, Kenny Bell and Larry D. Bell, her sister, Doris B. Ficklin and her daughter, Joan Brad.

Cherished memories of Josie Coates are left by those who loved her most and will remain in our hearts forever. Josie’s surviving siblings are; Annie Thomas, Edison Bell, Ennis Bell, Jr., Barbara Hudgeon (Billy), Jaqueline and Jaqueline Johnson. Josie was also loved by her twelve grandchildren, her five great grandchildren and her two great-great grandchildren along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A Viewing is scheduled for Monday, November 2, 2026, from 12:00 to 1:00 PM, at the Finegan Funeral Home, 4080 William Penn Highway, Easton, PA, with a Funeral Service to immediately follow.