Obituary: Josephine Peña

Josepine Peña passed away on January 23rd, 2026. Josephine, known to most as Josie, was born in 1936 and lived a long, fulfilling life surrounded by a large immediate family whose history is deeply connected with the communities of El Paso, Texas; Brackettville, Texas; and Fort Clark Springs. Up until the day she passed Josie maintained her kindness, grace, compassion, appreciation of beauty, love of family and friends and expressed gratitude for her long life, which was filled with wonderful and varied experiences.

Josie was born in Brackettville Texas to her parents Jose and Guadalupe Garcia in March of 1936. Josie’s parents met in Fort Clark Springs as her father Jose was stationed in the Calvary at Fort Clark and her mother Guadalupe played piano at the theatre in Fort Clark for the silent movies. When World War 2 broke out Josie’s father was transferred to Fort Bliss in El Paso Texas, however her mother also needed long-term treatment of a lung illness, therefore Josie remained in Brackettville to live with her grandmother Anna Garcia.

Separated from her immediate family. Josie spent her early years living there in the home of her grandmother. Josie grew up in that house with her grandmother which was built in the 1890’s. Going to school in Brackettville then getting to work in Ft. Clark. She eventually found employment with Brackettville School District working as a teacher’s aide and various levels.

Josie eventually married Alfred Peña and later they gave birth to three children. Oscar, Alfred Jr., and Michael Peña. They all lived in the same house with Anna until her passing. Alfred and Josie raised all three of their children in Brackettville.

Josie had a passion for flowers and music. She loved going into the yard to plant fresh flowers, when going out shopping she would bring home new potted plants. She could always be found in the yard caring for them and talking to her plants and flowers. Josie learned to play the piano from her mother Guadalupe. Eventually, the family acquired a piano, and Josie would love to play the piano for her family and friends and guests that would show up to the house. Music was a strong component of her family. Her father and uncle both played in the Fort Clark Cavalry orchestra. All three sons were in the Brackettville high school band.

Josie was a remarkable individual who valued every aspect of life. Even toward the end of her life, she established meaningful connections within her assisted living community. Demonstrating her characteristic spirit, Josie often visited the community room to play piano, offering enjoyment to those present. She exemplified what it means to live a fulfilling life, having experienced many positive moments and maintaining close relationships with her family.

Josie was predeceased by her husband, Alfred Peña, and her son, Alfred Peña Jr. Josie is survived by: sister, Laura Rivas; her sons, Oscar Peña and his wife Cynthia Peña, and Michael Peña and his wife Viviana Peña; grandchildren, Eric Peña, Rebecca Fowler, and Jennifer Peña; great grandchildren: Evan Peña, Caleb Peña, Charlotte Fowler, and Lucas Fowler;

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at St. Mary Magdalene's Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Magdalene's Catholic Church. Burial will follow at St. Mary Magdalene's Catholic Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Trinity Mortuary, 206 Kings Way, Del Rio, Texas (830) 775-2230. Tradition. Tribute. Trust.