Josie Mae Dixon Gunder was born on December 13, 1971, to the late Tommie Lee Dixon Sr. and Annie Mae Jackson. She peacefully transitioned on April 21, 2026, at Doctors’ Hospital in Augusta, Georgia, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and unwavering devotion to others.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at First Baptist Church, 939 North M.L.K. Blvd, Wadley, Georgia 30477 at 3:30 PM. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

Josie was a devoted and compassionate caregiver who dedicated her professional life to serving others. She worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Jefferson Hospital in Louisville, where she was known for her gentle spirit, patience, and genuine care for every individual she encountered. Her nurturing nature extended beyond her profession, as she also provided dedicated care to Eloise Demus, reflecting a lifelong commitment to helping those in need.

Her faith and service were central to who she was. As a faithful and active member of First Baptist Church, Josie contributed wholeheartedly to the life of the church. She was a member of the Voices of Praise singing group, where she shared her love of music as part of the alto section, and she also served diligently within the church choir. Her presence could be felt throughout the church community, whether through her involvement with the youth choir, her support in hospitality, or her efforts to ensure the church remained a welcoming and well-kept place for all. She truly had a heart for ministry and for people.

Josie’s impact reached far beyond her formal roles. She was known for always being present—showing up with consistency, love, and a willingness to support others in both big and small ways. From early memories of traveling alongside family to appointments in Augusta, to her constant presence within the community, she exemplified reliability and care in every aspect of her life.

Though she did not have biological children, Josie’s love for young people was evident to all. Children throughout the Bethany community and at First Baptist were naturally drawn to her warmth and kindness. She embraced them with open arms, offering guidance, encouragement, and genuine affection, and in return, she was deeply loved by many.

She was a 1992 graduate of Louisville High School and continued to pursue growth and service throughout her life, including earning her CPR certification. In 2001, she united in marriage with Lamar Gunder, the love of her life, and together they built a life grounded in love, faith, and mutual devotion.

Josie leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband, Lamar Gunder of Wadley; her brothers, Frankie (Catassa) Dixon of Louisville, Tommie Lee Dixon Jr. of Atlanta, and Jim Dixon of Bartow; and her sister, Christine Ferrell of Midville. She is also lovingly remembered by her mother-in-law, Arine Gunder Worthen of Wadley; her brothers-in-law, Anthony Worthen, Ricky Worthen, and Jason Worthen all of Wadley; her god-siblings, Whitley Boyd of Augusta, GA., Alicia Hinkins of Jacksonville, FL., Kimberly Hinkins, Augusta, GA., and Kenton Hinkins, Taunton, Mass.; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

Josie will be remembered for her heart of gold, her beautiful spirit, and the love she gave so freely to everyone she encountered. Her life was a testament to kindness, faith, and service, and her presence will be deeply missed, while her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.