Josephine Irena Sotomayer

September 20, 1932 – February 13, 2025

With profound love and gratitude, we announce the passing of Josephine Irena Sotomayer, who went home to be with her Lord and Savior on February 13, 2025, at the age of 92.

Born on September 20, 1932, in the San Francisco Bay Area, Josephine was the daughter of John and Carnation. She was fluent in Spanish and deeply proud of her heritage. She grew up alongside her siblings Raymond, Carmen, Manuel, Tina, and Ramona, with some preceding her in death.

Josephine married James Lee Smedley, a proud member of the United States Marine Corps, and together they built their home in the Belmont Shores area of Long Beach, California, where they raised their family. Later, she resided in Paradise, California, until the 2018 Camp Fire led her to relocate to Boynton Beach, Florida, where she spent her final years surrounded by loved ones.

A devoted disciple of Jesus Christ, Josephine’s faith was the foundation of her life. She earned a double major in Theology and Education from Bethany Bible College and dedicated herself to a 30-year career as an educator in both public and Christian schools. She was also a minister, author, mentor, and musician, passionately spreading the Word of God. Over her 51-year spiritual journey, she wrote and published three books, recorded three musical CDs, and created the website FeedMySheep4World.com to guide others in their faith.

Music was another expression of her devotion. A gifted songwriter, singer, poet, playwright, and pianist, she used her talents to glorify God and bring joy to those around her. She was the owner of Hidden Treasures Publishing Company and self-published multiple works.

Above all, Josephine was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose unwavering faith and kindness touched many lives. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, David Lee Smedley (2015), her grandson, James Smedley (2018), and all her siblings. She is survived by her children, Larry Smedley (Anne), Sally Jo (Glenn), and Daniel; her grandchildren, Lauren Smedley, Amber Colopy, Christina Lanahan, Taylor, Oceania and Scott Smedley; and seven great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Royal Palm Memorial Gardens, 5601 Greenwood Ave, West Palm Beach, FL. The gathering will take place from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, followed by the burial at 3:00 PM to 3:15 PM. Family and friends are invited to gather afterward at the home of Christina Lanahan.

To honor Josephine’s memory, flowers may be sent to Royal Palm Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens.

Josephine lived a life filled with faith, love, and purpose. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit and legacy will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.

Josephine Irena Sotomayer, age 92, of Boynton Beach, Florida passed away on Thursday, February 13, 2025.