Josefa Olivencia Obituary
Josefa "Alicia" Olivencia, born Josefa Colon, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, at the age of 87. She was born on October 8, 1938, in Villalba, Puerto Rico, and later made her home in Lorain, Ohio, where she built a life centered on faith, family, and service to others.
Josefa dedicated over 30 years of her life working in Lorain City Schools. She was known not only for her strong work ethic, but also for her kindness and the care she showed to everyone she encountered. Outside of work, her greatest passions were cooking and helping others. Her home was always filled with warmth, delicious meals, and open doors for anyone in need.
She had a remarkable presence—her radiant smile and infectious laughter could light up any room. She was a source of strength, comfort, and joy to all who knew her.
Her faith was the foundation of her life. For more than 65 years, she was a devoted and faithful member of Sacred Heart Chapel of Lorain, where she was involved in Juan XXIII, Groupo Vecindario, and also served in the kitchen. There she found community, purpose, and spiritual strength.
Josefa was a loving and devoted mother to her eight children: Mirna Esbri, Rafael Rodriguez, Carlos Rodriguez (Lucy), Phil Guzman, Gilberto Olivencia Jr. (Lillian), Eddie Olivencia, Gloria E. Olivencia, and Nancy Olivencia-Coleman (Cleveland D.). Her legacy of love continues through her 24 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren, including Gilberto Olivencia III and Gabriel Olivencia. She is survived by her three loving siblings, Wilfredo Gonzalez, Frank Colon, and Teddy Colon.
She was preceded in death by her husband Gilberto Olivencia, Sr. in 2000; parents, Maria Gonzalez and Thomas Colon, along with 14 brothers and sisters.
She leaves behind a family rooted in love, faith, and resilience—values she instilled in every generation. Josefa's life was a testament to compassion, dedication, and unwavering faith. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the blessing of knowing her.
Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and community.
Her family will receive friends at Sacred Heart Chapel, 4301 Pearl Avenue, Lorain, Monday, July 13, 2026, from 8:30 until Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30AM. Rev. Father Alexander C. Spenik, Pastor will officiate. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Lorain.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Sacred Heart Memorial Fund, https://osvhub.com.
