Josephine Chavez

Josephine Chavez, 92, of Tempe, AZ formerly of Freeport, IL and Pueblo, CO, passed away on May 29, 2023, at her home surrounded by loved ones.

Josephine was born December 10, 1930, in Pueblo, CO, the daughter of Tobias and Teresita (Valdez) Gonzales. She married Porfirio “Jim” Chavez on February 4, 1957. He preceded her in death on December 6, 1988.

Josephine is survived by her children, Richard (Rose) Gonzales, Arthur (Gen) Chavez, Theresa (Tom) Kelleher, Danny (Sharon) Chavez, Patsy (Tim) Cook, James (Cathy) Chavez; grandchildren Janelle, Julie, Jacque, Art Jr. Victor, DJ, Jessica, Justine, Alex, Carlos, Zac, Kendra, Danielle, Lucas, Courtney, Jimi, and Elizabeth; 24-1/2 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; her brother, Robert (Adita) Gonzales; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was also preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Phyllis Aranda, and numerous sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law who were very dear to her. She is also preceded in death by her beloved yorkie, Trooper, who helped her weather many lonely days after her husband passed.

She will be missed by the many children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other relatives she leaves behind. She will also be missed by her card playing crew from San Tan Valley, and those whose lives she touched in her many travels throughout her life. In addition to her heartfelt love, Josie leaves them all with memories of her genuine laughter, her adventurous spirit, her love of card games and virtually any gambling, her love of all sports, her amazing cooking skills (Mexican food was her specialty but she never found a recipe she couldn’t make better), and her love of the occasional(?) shot of tequila!

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that if you are so inclined, direct a memorial to your favorite charity in Josie’s name; or, visit your favorite casino. She would have liked that.

A brief ceremony will be held on Thursday, June 15, 2023, at 1pm at the Mausoleum Chapel at Oakland Cemetery in Freeport. Burial to follow immediately.