Josie F. Leon

Josie F. Leon, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, in Tucson, Arizona. She was born on February 18, 1945, in Bisbee, Arizona, to Antonio and Cleotilde Fimbres. Throughout her 81 years, Josie was a source of love, warmth, and unwavering support to those around her.

Josie’s early years in Bisbee helped shape her resilient spirit and nurturing heart. She married Fernando Leon, with whom she shared a deep and enduring partnership until his passing. Together they raised a close-knit family, and through life’s joys and challenges, Josie remained the steadfast center of her home.

One of Josie’s greatest achievements was raising her children and helping to care for her grandchildren. She was a loving and devoted mother to her daughters Grace Leon, Martha Hoffman, Eliza Gomez and her daughter, Marie Bella Leon, always guiding them with compassion and strength. Her sons-in-law, Billy Hoffman and Jose Gomez, were also proud to call her family. Josie’s nurturing nature extended to her grandchildren; Tiffany Cervantes, Eddie A. Perez, Bobby L. Perez, Raquel L. Perez, Freddy L. Cervantes, Priscilla Salas, Cassandra J. Perez and Ashley V. Hoffman; many of whom she helped to raise, creating a lasting legacy filled with happy memories, laughter, and wisdom. She was also survived by her 25-great grandchildren and 20 great-great-grandchildren. They were her proudest accomplishments all of whom cherished the unique and unconditional love she gave so freely.

At the age of 81, she lovingly assumed the responsibility by adopting and raising her late son's daughter, Marie, who was just six years old. With extraordinary strength, unwavering devotion, and unconditional love, she became a mother once again, giving Marie the care, guidance and stability she so desperately needed. 

Josie brought togetherness and joy wherever she went. She delighted in playing bingo at her local churches, the American Legion, and at the casino, where her vibrant presence was always welcomed. These simple pleasures reflected her lighthearted approach to life and her love of community. Josie’s friends remember her as a beautiful person—generous, caring, and steadfast. Her caring nature shone through in every relationship she built, and her door was always open to those in need of a listening ear or a compassionate hand.

Josie’s passing leaves a profound sense of loss in the hearts of her family and friends. She is survived by her daughters Grace, Martha,  Eliza and Marie; her sons-in-law Billy and Jose; and many dear friends whose lives she touched. She now reunites with her beloved husband, Fernando E. Leon, her son, Fernando G. Leon, Jr., her parents, Antonio and Cleotilde Fimbres and her great-grandson, Santana Salas, who all preceded her in death.

To honor Josie F. Leon’s life, a visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Martinez Funeral Chapels in Tucson (2580 S 6th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85713). A Rosary will take place at the same location at 10:00 a.m. Burial services will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Holy Hope Cemetery (3555 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705).

Josie’s legacy of love, compassion, and selfless devotion will be fondly remembered and profoundly missed by all who knew her. Her family takes comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind and the example of kindness and resilience that will continue to inspire them for generations to come.