Josefina Zaragoza Escamilla, 97, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and woman of unwavering faith, passed away leaving behind a lifetime of love, cherished memories, and a legacy that will live forever in the hearts of those who knew her. Born in Valencia, Spain, Josefina carried with her the warmth, spirit, and passion for life that would define her for nearly a century. Her journey brought her from Spain to Northern Kentucky, where she built a home and raised her family alongside her beloved husband, Antonio. In retirement, she made her home in Cocoa Beach, Florida, and later with her daughter in Orlando, where she continued to embrace life and all the blessings it had to offer.

Josefina was a woman of remarkable strength, generosity, and love. She had a strong spirit, an adventurous heart, and a deep devotion to God and to her family. Her Catholic faith was the foundation of her life. She found comfort and strength in prayer and great joy in her church at Our Saviour’s and later at St. James. She was a Third Order Franciscan, and many asked for her prayers knowing her closeness to the Lord. Josefina loved her family. She treasured the time spent together, the laughter, the conversations, and the simple moments that become life's most precious memories. Her love was generous and unconditional, and she had a beautiful way of making those around her feel cared for and loved.

She also knew how to enjoy life. She loved the beach, sunshine, playing tennis and a good margarita. She embraced new adventures and found happiness in the beauty of each day. Even at 97, her spirit reflected a love of living that inspired those around her.

Josefina leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her memory: her two children Elena and Tony; her cherished grandchild Elena Therese; her daughter in law Mary Beth Escamilla and she had a special closeness to her loving niece Maria Jose Palacios in Valencia, Spain. Though saying goodbye is heartbreaking, the family finds comfort in knowing that her faith was strong, her life was full, and her love will never leave them.

Ninety-seven years is a remarkable gift, but no number of years ever feels like enough when someone has meant so much. Her hands may no longer hold ours, but the love she gave, the lessons she taught, the faith she shared, and the memories she created will remain with us always.

We take comfort in our Catholic faith and in the promise of eternal life, trusting that Josefina has been welcomed into the loving arms of our Lord, reunited with those who went before her, namely her husband Antonio Escamilla, her mother and her sister. and we pray that they all are resting in everlasting peace.

Until we meet again, dear Josefina. Thank you for your love, your strength, your faith, and for showing us how to embrace life. You were a blessing to our family, and you will be loved and missed beyond words.

May the angels lead you into Paradise, and may perpetual light shine upon you. May your soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Josefina’s life and faith will be held at:

Church: St James Cathedral

Address: 215 N Orange Ave Orlando, FL 32801

Date: November 10, 2026

Time: Visitation 9:00 am Mass @ 10:00 am

A reception and gathering of family and friends will follow the Mass at:

Location: St James Cathedral

Address: 215 N Orange Ave Orlando, FL 32801

Time: immediately following Mass

Graveside Services

Graveside services will be held the following day in Rockledge, Florida

Cemetery: Florida Memorial Gardens

Address: 5950 S US Highway 1, Rockledge, Florida 32955

Date: Wednesday, November 11th, 2026

Time: 10:00AM

Family and friends are invited to come together to celebrate Josefina’s beautiful life, share memories, offer prayers, and honor the love and faith she gave so generously throughout her 97 years.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Cristo Rey Parish 25 Cavalier Blvd, Florence, KY 41042 where her son serves as a deacon.

May she rest in the peace of Christ, surrounded by His eternal love.