Josephine Casillas Alonzo

Josephine "Josie" Casillas Alonzo, 78, of Waco, Texas, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 24, 2025. Born on March 1, 1946, in Waco, Josie lived a life filled with love and laughter.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 2621 Bagby Ave., Waco, TX 76711. Burial will follow at Waco Memorial Park. The Rosary will begin at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, January 30, 2025, with visitation continuing until 8:00 p.m., at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home, 6101 Bosque Blvd., Waco, TX 76710.

Josie began her career with the EOAC before dedicating 36 years to the Owens-Illinois glass plant, where her work ethic and dedication left a lasting impact. She retired in 2009, ready to enjoy the simple life surrounded by the people she cherished most.

A devoted wife to Ygnacio Alonzo Jr., whom she married on September 25, 1971, Josie was also a proud and loving mother and grandmother. Her sons and grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she loved sharing photos and stories about them with everyone she met.

Josie found happiness in the company of friends and family. She loved Friday get-togethers for margaritas as well as trips to WinStar with her mother and sisters, enjoying laughter and unforgettable moments of connection. Her joy and warmth brightened every room she entered.

A survivor of cancer and the unimaginable loss of two of her sons, Josie exemplified strength and resilience. Despite life's challenges, she remained a beacon of love and kindness to all who knew her. Josie's legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be remembered for her generous spirit, infectious laughter, and unwavering love for those closest to her.

Josie was preceded in death by her parents, George and Rosa Casillas; her sons, Joe Frank and John Robert Alonzo; her brothers, George Casillas Jr. and Gonzalo Casillas; and her sister, Lydia Martinez.

She is survived by her husband, Ygnacio Alonzo Jr.; her son, George Alonzo; her granddaughters, Bella and Sophia Alonzo; her grandsons, Landon and Jackson Alonzo; her sister, Janie Hurtado and husband, Richard; her brothers, Joe Casillas and Johnny Casillas, and Johnny’s partner, Chuck Gekiere; along with several nieces and nephews.

Honorary pallbearers are Landon Alonzo, Jackson Alonzo, Adrian Hurtado, Brandon Sliva, Nick Rodriguez, and Gavino Rodriguez.

We invite you to leave a message or memory in Josie’s “Memorial Guestbook” at www.WHBfamily.com.