On October 1, 2023, Josefina Rivas passed away surrounded by family, friends, and loved ones. She is survived by one brother José "Chato" Huerta of Los Angeles, his wife Lupe, and one sister, Martha Miller of Delhi, California; 2 daughters, Crusita Perea of Rowe, New Mexico and her husband Jerry, and Josephine Rodriguez of Hilmar, California and her husband Alfonso; 2 sons, José Luis Ruesga and Johnny Rivas both of Turlock, California and their wives Teresa and Maria, respectively. Additionally, she leaves behind 21 grandchildren, 35 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Josefina was born in Los Angeles, California on April 4, 1921. She traveled through Mexico and California, finally settling in the Central Valley making Turlock her home for over 75 years. She lived life fully and enjoyed spending time with her husband and children and later, her children's children. She was generous with everyone and always welcomed friends into her home for a family meal.
Josefina was beautiful inside and out. She was loving, affectionate, but also stubborn. She enjoyed being at home with family and the occasional trip to the casino. Those who knew her, knew her to be larger than life, ready to laugh, reluctant to cry, always willing to share. Although she could have a temper, it was never for long.
The good Lord shared her with us for 102 years before calling her home to be with her husband Juan Rivas, her daughters Mary Lupe Jiménez and Blanca Estela Arroyo, her son Manuel Chavarin and her grandson Alfonso Rodriguez, Jr. We will love and miss her always.
A Visitation for Josefina will be held Wednesday, October 4, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Whitehurst-Norton-Dias Funeral Service, 286 West Main, Turlock, CA 95380.
Recitation of the Rosary Wednesday, October 4, 2023 from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, 286 West Main, Turlock, CA 95380.
A Funeral Mass will occur Thursday, October 5, 2023 at 1:00 PM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1200 Lyons Avenue, Turlock, CA 95380.
A Committal Service will occur Thursday, October 5, 2023 at Turlock Memorial Park, 575 North Soderquist Road, Turlock, CA 95380.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.wndfunerals.com for the Rivas family.
