Josephine E. Kendrick of San Diego, born December 16, 1956, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, February 27, 2022, after years of battling serious illnesses. She was 65 years old.
Hailing from Pangasanan, Philippines, one of her favorite childhood memories was playing in the fields and climbing mango trees with her best friend Pete. Josephine went on to attend high school and then college at the Lyceum of the Philippines. She also worshipped at the Local Iglesias Ni Cristo, serving as a choir member for years.
Then America beckoned, where she married retired Navy Master Chief Norman Cleaves, had a beautiful daughter Carmela, and started a new job with the Navy Exchange at the 32nd St Naval Base. Known as "Ms Jo" to co-workers and customers alike, little did this "powerhouse of strength and will" realize that a Sales Supervisor career would blossom! She retired after 25 years of serving not only our American military, but also those of many countries.
Norman sadly passed away in July 2017. Josephine later married retired Navy Senior Chief Michael Kendrick in August 2020, and they spent her final years together. It was during this time that she started suffering even more-so from her various ailments, resulting in numerous hospitalizations and operations.
But she never gave up, relying on faith, family, and friends through the most trying times. Her greatest comforts were enjoying beautiful days and the company of loved ones, with her beloved Pugs Michelle and Roxy nestled in her lap, and the vivacious neighborhood feline Missy May patrolling the yard. For Josephine, life was best summed up in her favorite song "What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong.
Josephine was pre-deceased by parents Leonardo and Felomina Espinosa; and sisters Milagros E. San Juan and Soledad Espinosa, all of the Philippines.
She is survived by daughter Carmela E. Cleaves of Oakland, CA; siblings Rogelio (Roger) Espinosa; Myrna E. Arcilla; Leonardo (Boy) Espinosa Jr; Romeo Espinosa; Fernando Espinosa; Erano (Erdy) Espinosa, all of the Philippines; Elizabeth E. Westfall of Tampa, FL; and Veronica E. Stevens of Anchorage, AK.
In lieu of flowers, we suggest donations to one or more of the following: The American Diabetes Association, The American Heart Association, The National Kidney Foundation, and The Glaucoma Foundation.
A visitation for Josephine will be held Wednesday, March 23, 2022 from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Funeraria del Angel National City, 607 National City Boulevard, National City, CA 91950. A graveside service will occur Thursday, March 24, 2022 from 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr,, San Diego, CA 92122.
