The family of Josephine Corella of Gilroy is saddened to announce her passing on Monday, November 20th at the age of 88 years.

Josie or Fina, as she was affectionately called , was born June 11, 1935 in Nogales, Mexico. She moved to Gilroy, CA as a young child. In 1953 Josie married Armando Corella, and together raised three sons while making Gilroy their permanent home. Armando preceded her in death passing in 2003.

Josie is survived by her three loving sons Armando Jr., Mark (Kate), and Bobby (Sissy). Josie was blessed with 10 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren whom she adored.

Josie was employed at Gentry Foods and Gilroy Unified School District where she specialized in helping Spanish speaking students learn English and adapt to the education system. It was her time spent in schools and her love of children that brought out her true passion for helping others. This became evident to the parishioners of St. Mary Church.

Over 40 years of her life were spent as a Catechism instructor at St. Mary Church dedicated to Spanish speaking children preparing for the Sacrament of First Communion. Josie spent decades working with St. Mary Ministry, Devina Misericordia (Divine Mercy) who dedicate their time to support the community and provide spiritual, basic living, and financial needs. Josie was from a large family that included many talented musicians and logically found her way to the Church Choir. She spent countless hours sharing her love of music during Sunday Mass. As a Eucharistic Minister Josie distributed Holy Communion to the congregation of St. Mary. To support those who could no longer attend church services she would regularly bring the Sacrament of Communion to their homes. She was a long time volunteer of St. Joseph's Food pantry which is dedicated to provide food to anyone in need. Her greatest gift of all was that she prayed daily and passionately for all of us and anyone in need.

Josie loved her boys and her entire family. She loved her community and treated them as her family which kept her in the hearts and minds of so many. This resulted in countless visitors and phone calls which were always the highlight of her day.

Funeral services will be held Friday December 1st beginning with Mass at 1:30 at St. Mary Church followed by burial at St. Mary Cemetery. A reception will be held for friends and family with details to follow.

Donations can be made to St. Mary Church.