Printmaker Richard Josey was born in Reading, England, on October 4, 1840, to John and Ann (nee Gill) Josey, publicans who ran the London Street Tavern. Josey and his brothers attended the Reading Blue Coat School, and at age thirteen he apprenticed with English/Tasmanian painter Thomas William Knight, and then in the studio of the Chevalier Ballin where he learned printmaking. He established himself as a leading mezzotint engraver and was given his first commisions by the firm of Henry Graves & Co. He eventually worked regularly for them, creating prints of noted artist's paintings for publication by the firm. Among the artists he collaborated with to produce these images were James Abbott McNeill Whistler, John Everett Millais, Thomas Gainsborough, and many others. 

Josey's attention to detail, particulary of tonality, and ability to collaborate with artists in faithfully representing their work bolstered his reputation in the greater art world. He exhibited at the Royal Academy regularly between 1876 and 1887. His subjects mainly focused on portraits, religious scenes, animals, and sporting scenes, among others. He married Elizabeth Croxon in 1864 and they had fourteen children, among whom was Maurice Josey, a noted English mosaic artist.

Joesy died in Shepherd's Bush, London on February 6, 1906.