Josephine Reyes, known to most as “Josie,” “Mom” and “Grandma,” passed away peacefully in her home in Goleta on Jan. 31, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones.

Born on Oct. 10, 1928, to Sarah and Ignacio Figueroa, Josie’s warmth and optimism had shone brightly throughout her life.

A true Santa Barbara native, she spent her early childhood in a two-story Victorian house on Haley Street before the streets were even paved, and when most of the town was still rural.

Her memories of those years were filled with much love and laughter, and mischievous adventures. Josie loved to share these stories of youth, which often included roaming freely and safely around town, and going to the first “talkies” that came into Santa Barbara.

Josie was the youngest of nine children, and she often spoke of the philanthropic endeavors her mom engaged in. Like her mom, Josie often opened her home and heart to those in need, spreading joy and helping in any way she could.

She thrived at gardening, and created her own little paradise right in her own backyard, filled with various fruit trees and colorful plants. Her favorite pastimes involved collecting antiques, growing plants, and nurturing birds, dogs and children.

Josie is survived by her five children in the following birth order from oldest to youngest: Danny Brino, Delia Brino Chavez, Valerie Reyes, Valentine Reyes, and Elizabeth Reyes.

At the age of 96, she was truly blessed to have met and held five great-grandchildren and six grandchildren.

Her grandchildren are, in birth order oldest to youngest: Cherie Chavez, Jose Chavez, Jr., Elizabeth Echevarria, Daniel Echevarria, Amanda Garza, and Sophia Garza.

Her great-grandchildren in birth order oldest to youngest are: Robert Cuevas, Siena Chavez, Sevi Chavez, Sadie Chavez, and Ezekiel Montejano.

Josephine Reyes, our beloved matriarch, you have taught us how to live in the present, and to practice gratitude for what we have. We will always carry your memory in our hearts.

We would like to extend a special thank you to Assisted Hospice Care: Krista, Maryann, Derk Jon and Gladys.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 14 at Santa Barbara Cemetery, 901 Channel Drive, Santa Barbara.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Pueblo Del Rey Funeral Services