Josephine P Arzu

On Saturday, January 24, 2026, Josephine Palacio Arzu, the beloved matriarch of the Arzu family, passed away peacefully at the age of 90. Family was the heart of her world, and she leaves behind a rich legacy as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Josephine was born on August 27, 1935, in Punta Gorda, Belize. She carried the spirit of her Central American roots to the United States in 1952, where she built a life centered on love, hard work, and devotion to others. Upon her arrival, she began working for the family of the late James W. West, M.D. This relationship would span decades, and she remained in close contact with the West children until her passing.

Josephine was joined in life by her beloved husband, Cecil C. Arzu Sr. Although they both grew up in Punta Gorda, it was after immigrating to the United States that their paths truly aligned and their love blossomed. They were married on June 7, 1958, and together, they raised seven beautiful children.

For many years, Josephine served as a nurse’s aide at St. Bernardine’s Hospital, where she earned a reputation for her deep compassion and tireless work ethic. She was also a faithful member of the Catholic Daughters, a reflection of her strong faith and commitment to service.

Whether she was baking and cooking for loved ones, sewing with care, or singing in church, Josephine always found joy in life’s simple beauties. Her favorite color was blue, and she was particularly fond of Stevie Wonder’s "A Place in the Sun," a song that perfectly mirrored her hopeful spirit and loving heart.

When asked how she wished to be remembered, her response was simple and profound: “My family—I love my family God gave me.” Her joyful nature and wonderful sense of humor allowed her to make the most of everyday moments. Josephine will always be remembered for her patience, kindness, infectious laugh, and unconditional love.

She is survived by her husband, Cecil C. Arzu Sr.

She is survived by her children:

• Michael Arzu Sr. and wife Lorrie

• Thomas Arzu and wife Lorena

• Rachel Arzu

• Philip Arzu and wife Nichole

• Cecil Arzu Jr.

• Tony Arzu and wife Amra

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Anna Marie.

She is survived by her grandchildren:

• Michael Jr. and partner Kizzy

• Vanessa

• Jimmy

• Anna and husband Brad

• Robert and fiancé Amanda

• Yelenna and husband Abel

• Arlene

• Cassandra

• Ruben

• Aaron and partner Denise

• Avery

• Ryan

• Eli

• Aiden

She is survived by her great-grandchildren:

• Noah

• Dominick

• Micah

• Denise

• Johnathan

• Serynna

• Elaina

• Kaia

• Aaron II

• Phoenix

• Ruben

• Naomi

• Sebastian

• Elizabeth

• Keldrick (bonus great-grandchild)

• Willie (bonus great-grandchild)

• Giselle (bonus great-grandchild)

VIEWING:

• Date: February 26, 2026

• Time: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

• Location: Mt. View Mortuary & Cemetery (Dignity Memorial)

• 570 E Highland Ave, San Bernardino CA 92404

MEMORIAL MASS:

• Date: February 27, 2026

• Time: 1:00 PM to 2:15 PM

• Location: St. Adelaide Church

• 27457 Base Line St, Highland CA 92346

CELEBRATION OF LIFE:

• Date: February 27, 2026

• Time: 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM

• Location: The American Legion

• 814 W. Colton Ave, Redlands CA 92374