On March 21, 2026, John “Kevin” Josey took his final steps home to be with Jesus. Born on February 16, 1961, Kevin is survived by his beloved wife, Diana Weeks Josey; his children, John Ryan, Rebekah Wills (Cohen), and Wade; his grandchildren, Josey, Sophie, and Lillian Wills; and his siblings, Teresa Morton (Bob), Camille, Sam, and Kim Crenshaw (Don). He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert “Bob” and Alice Josey; his sister, Rene’ Davis; and his younger brother, Stuart Josey.

Kevin grew up in Smyrna, Georgia, the sixth of seven children. His childhood was filled with time spent outdoors—playing baseball with neighborhood friends and trout fishing with his father and brothers in the streams and rivers of North Georgia. He continued playing baseball as a catcher into his high school years. Many may not know that Kevin also excelled in music, playing the trombone throughout middle and high school and earning a place in a selective jazz band. He later became drum major at Osborne High School, class of 1979, where he also distinguished himself academically as the top-ranking male student in his class.

Kevin received a music scholarship to Kennesaw State University before transferring to and graduating from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. He later earned a Master’s degree in Math Education.

Kevin had a gift for writing poetry, often sharing clever, heartfelt verses with friends and family. His love of learning never faded. After several entrepreneurial endeavors, he found his calling in education, becoming a math teacher in the Glynn County school system. He taught at Glynn Academy, Risley Early College Academy, and the Glynn Learning Center. More than a teacher, Kevin was a mentor who encouraged his students to make wise choices and to pursue success both in school and in life.

As a teenager, after watching The Hiding Place, Kevin made the life-changing decision to surrender his life to Jesus Christ. His faith became the foundation for every decision he made. He was a gentle-spirited man of few words, known for his servant’s heart, being a great listener, and for his quiet wisdom.

In 1983, Kevin met Diana Weeks at the University of Georgia. From that moment on, only his love for Jesus surpassed his love for Diana. His siblings often joked, “When Diana said yes, you married up!” Kevin would always reply, “Way up—out of my league!” Kevin and Diana would have celebrated 40 years of marriage this summer. His deep love and devotion to Diana were evident to all who knew him.

Together, Kevin and Diana faithfully served the Lord at The Gathering Place, a local ministry. They were also among the founding families of St Simons Community Church. Kevin spent years teaching God’s Word before the church hired its first pastor, later serving as an elder and continuing to volunteer for more than 20 years. Throughout their marriage, Kevin and Diana also led home group Bible studies.

Kevin loved his children deeply. Family vacations were often spent tent camping by a mountain stream, guided by his belief that “families that camp together stay together.” He was always ready for a game of chess—even while camping—and was eventually outmatched by John Ryan, who surpassed him at around age 10. Kevin and Bekah shared a love for the Georgia Bulldogs and kept up a steady stream of texts during games. Wade brought music into the home, and Kevin delighted in listening to him play the piano. As fellow music lovers, they enjoyed bands like ELO, Chicago, and the Eagles together. Kevin also had a special place in his heart for his three granddaughters. His eyes would light up whenever he spoke of Josey, Sophie, and Lillian, who lovingly called him “Pops.”

Kevin’s life was not without challenges. As a young adult, he was diagnosed with myotonic muscular dystrophy. Though it slowed him, it never stopped him from living a full and giving life.

In 2023, while living in Tampa, Kevin suffered a life-altering traumatic brain injury after a fall on his first day at a new school. Through it all, Diana remained his devoted soulmate, helpmate, and encourager as they walked the difficult road of learning to live with a TBI in addition to declining health due to the MD—and ultimately, of facing the end of life with grace and faith.

Kevin will be greatly missed, but “we do not grieve as those who have no hope,” for we know he is now in the loving embrace of his Savior, Jesus Christ, reunited with the saints who have gone before him. In God’s perfect timing, we trust we will be together again.

A celebration of Kevin’s life will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at St Simons Community Church. A reception will follow in the atrium. All are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Community Church, 2700 Frederica Rd, St. Simons Island, GA 31522 Muscular Dystrophy Association, Inc., PO Box 7410354, Chicago, IL 60674-0354 American Diabetes Association, PO Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023 or St. Simons Christian School, 1060 Coquina Circle, St. Simons Island, 31522 (912) 634-8177.