Josephine A. Van Cleave, 83, of Imperial died April 17, 2025, in Festus. Mrs. Van Cleave worked in the food service industry for many years. She was a member of the St. John the Beloved Disciple Church. Her hobbies included sewing, crafting and cooking. She will be remembered for helping and being a friend to others. Born Dec. 8, 1941, in St. Louis, she was the daughter of the late Josephine (Daniele) and Emmett Tucker.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years: George L. Van Cleave Jr.
She is survived by three children: Valerie (Steven) Boning of Fenton, Victoria (Joe) Ruoff of House Springs and George (Sandi) Van Cleave of Bonne Terre; 10 grandchildren: Erik (Molly) Boning of Affton, Matthew (Laura) Boning of Farmington, Joseph Ruoff of House Springs, Faith Ruoff of House Springs, Lauren (Joey) DeNoyer of Farmington, Mackenzie (Tommy) Smith of Hillsboro, Ryan Phillips of Park Hills, Shane Phillips of Desloge, Jaxton Van Cleave of Bonne Terre and Ashton Van Cleave of Bonne Terre; and numerous family members and friends.
She also was preceded in death by two siblings: Phyllis Raymo and Art Tucker; and a grandson: Cameron J. Van Cleave.
Services were held April 25 at St. John the Beloved Disciple Catholic Church in Imperial, officiated by Father Anthony Yates. Burial was in the National Cemetery at Jefferson Barracks. Arrangements were under the direction of Kutis South County Chapel in St. Louis County.