Josie Huerta Gonzales, 93, passed away peacefully in her sleep of natural causes on September 14, 2024. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Josie is survived by her sister, Vera Carrillo (Manuel); children, Joe Gonzales (Cathy- deceased), JoAnn Gonzales, Bel Contreras (Eric) Mercy Gonzales (Gary Burnstad), Richard Gonzales (Tony Casteneda), Barbara Gonzales (Deceased), Gilbert Gonzales (Donna), and Bonnie Lusk (Tim); 15 grandchildren; 40 great grandchildren; and 4 great, great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Sebastian and Antonia Huerta; husband, Joe "Ranchero" Gonzales; siblings, Fernando Huerta, David Huerta, Tony Huerta, Pauline Montaño, Cruzita Chavez, Mary Martinez, and Lupe Bracamonte; daughter, Barbara Gonzales; daughter-in-law, Cathy Gonzales; and grandson, Christopher Mariscal.

Josie was born on July 11, 1931, in Hayden Jct., Arizona, to Sebastian and Antonia Huerta. She went on to marry her husband, Joe "Ranchero" Gonzales, on August 13, 1951. She spent the majority of her life in Arizona (Sonora and Kearny) with the exception of Elko, Nevada for a short period.

Josie spent eighteen years working for Ray School's Special Education (ARC) program as an assistant teacher and bus driver. Throughout her career, she was known for her hard work, dedication, and passion for helping others.

But more than anything, Josie was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She and Ranchero were known for their dancing and following of their favorite band, Ray Camacho. In addition, Josie and Ranchero were members of the exclusive EL Sonorense Club, who focused on special events in an effort to fundraise for scholarships. Josie loved spending time with her family, sharing stories, completing word searches, and watching her favorite TV shows-Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. She was always there to offer guidance, support, and encouragement to her family members, no matter what challenges they faced. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew her.

Services will be held on Saturday, September 28, 2024. Viewing will begin at 9:00 AM, with the Rosary at 9:30 AM and Mass at 10:00 AM at Infant Jesus of Prague Catholic Church in Kearny, Arizona, followed by the burial service at the Mountain View Cemetery in Hayden, Arizona.