Josefa Padilla

Southbridge...Josefa “Josie” Padilla, 88, lovingly known as Josie, entered her heavenly rest on September 30, 2025.  Born on April 14, 1937, she migrated to New York at a young age, where she continued her education and went on to work for renowned fashion designer Oleg Cassini.  

She was a devout member of St. Mary’s Church and was part of the OBLATOS EXTERNOS DEL DIVINO AMOR

Su fin es "Promover la Mayor Gloria de Dios" y su misión propia es reproducir el Amor de Dios en su Unidad

Trinitaria, bajo las tres características de este sublime carisma: Adoración, Reparación y Apostolado, sirviendo en los diferentes ministerios de la parroquia.

In 1964, she relocated to Newark, New Jersey, where she became a powerful voice and advocate for the city’s youth. Josie was an active volunteer with the Democratic Party and played a key role in efforts to introduce bilingual education into the Newark Public School system.

One of fourteen siblings, Josie is survived by her brother Ramon Padilla and sister Sara Padilla. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Ciriaco Luis Maya.

She leaves behind her children: Evelyn Feliciano, Sindy Reyes, Daisy Rivera, Marisol Maya, Francisco Reyes, and Anthony Reyes, as well as a proud legacy of grandchildren, Tanya, Cynthia, Carlos, Mark, Yaharia, Joshua, Anthony Jr., Taina, Isreal, Wilson, Ramon, Jasmin, Patrick & Darby and great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Her dedication to family, community, and justice continues through the lives she touched.

The funeral will be Monday, October 6, 2025, from Sansoucy Funeral Home, 40 Marcy Street, Southbridge, with the Mass of Christian Burial at 11AM at Saint Mary's Church, 247 Hamilton Street, Southbridge.  A calling hour will be held at the funeral home from  9:30-10:30AM, before the Mass.  Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, Charlton Street, Southbridge.

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