Josephine Perez “Josie” Gaytan

Josephine Perez “Josie” Gaytan

In Loving Memory of Josie Gaytan

With heavy hearts and profound love, we announce the passing of Josie Gaytan, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose life was marked by faith, hard work, service, and unwavering love for her family and community.

Josie was born and raised in Gonzales, Texas, where she learned the value of hard work at an early age while picking cotton in the fields. The lessons she learned during those years shaped the determination, strength, and resilience that would define her throughout her life.

She dedicated many years to caring for others in both her personal and professional life. A gifted cook, she shared her talents with the community through her work at several well-known local establishments, including Al’s Steak House, Toni’s, Alcalde, Cow Palace, Porras’s, and Kloesel’s. She later worked at H-E-B and Wuest’s, where she became known for her warm smile, kind heart, and strong work ethic. Josie also devoted many years of service to the “Migrant Clinic”, where her compassion, dependability, and caring nature touched the lives of countless patients and coworkers. Her nurturing spirit extended far beyond the workplace. She spent many years with the Wilbert Benes family, lovingly helping raise their two sons and becoming a cherished part of their family.

Josie was also a talented seamstress who could create or repair almost anything with a needle and thread. She found great joy in crocheting and lovingly crafted countless handmade items for family and friends. Among her most treasured creations are the beautiful quilts she leaves behind, each carefully stitched with patience, skill, and love. These quilts will be cherished by her family for generations as lasting reminders of her warmth, creativity, and devotion.

Faith was the cornerstone of Josie’s life. After being taught to play the guitar by her nephew, she became a devoted member of the Sacred Heart Adult Choir. For more than 40 years, she faithfully shared her musical gifts in worship, accompanying countless Masses, special celebrations, and church gatherings. Her dedication to her faith and church remained steadfast throughout her life, and she was blessed to play at her beloved 8:00 a.m. Mass just a few weeks before her passing.

Josie also enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. She was an avid San Antonio Spurs fan and rarely missed a game. Whether cheering from her favorite chair at home or discussing the team’s latest performance with family and friends, her loyalty to the Spurs never wavered.

Above all, Josie treasured her family. She gave freely of her time, talents, and love. Her kindness, faith, strength, and unwavering devotion left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Josie is survived by her beloved children, Alex Gaytan(the late Mary Jane), Veronica Gaytan Leal(the late Matthew), and Alice Gaytan. She is also survived by her sisters, Lillie Gomez, Mary Ann Hernandez (John), Alice Rae Lopez, Betty Ayala (Ricardo), and Linda Leal (Aurelio); and her brothers, Alfred Perez and Richard B. Perez. She leaves behind numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will cherish her memory and carry her legacy forward.

Josie was preceded in death by her husband, Alfredo Gaytan; her parents, Rudolph and Sara Bernal Perez; her sisters, Rosie Castaneda and Lucia Garcia; and her brothers, Rudy Perez Jr. and Gilbert B. Perez.

Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the memories she created, the music she shared, and the quilts, meals, and countless acts of love she gave so generously.

"Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day."

Visitation will be held from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at Seydler-Hill Funeral Home with the Rosary being recited at 7 p.m. The Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated 10 a.m. Thursday, October 15, 2026 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Reverend Jason Martini officiating. Interment will follow at St. James Catholic Cemetery.

Friends may sign the guestbook and leave condolences by visiting www.seydlerhillfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Seydler-Hill Funeral Home, 906 St. Paul Street, Gonzales.