Josephine Stotka

Josephine Stotka, 92, of Washington, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at home on July 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on March 15, 1934, Josephine was a graduate of Centerville High School and devoted her life to what mattered most—her family. Being a wife, mom, grandma, nana, aunt, sister, and friend was her greatest joy.

Those who knew Josephine will remember her gentle spirit, kind heart, unwavering faith, and warm smile. Her Catholic faith guided her throughout her life with strength, compassion, and grace. Proud of her Polish heritage, she cherished the traditions and values that shaped her. She enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, especially spending time with family, going to the movies, and making memories with those she loved.

An excellent cook and baker, Josephine filled her home with delicious meals and homemade treats that brought everyone together. She taught by example the meaning of unconditional love, kindness, patience, and devotion. Nothing brought her greater joy than being surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

She is lovingly survived by her daughters, Debbie (late Ted) Smider and Cindy (Mike) Hunnell; her sons, David (Darleen) Stotka and Michael (Cathy) Stotka III; her sister, Louise (Will) Tosi; her grandchildren Ashley, Brittany, Tara, Sheila, Rachel, Sarah, Laura, Christina, Michael, Amanda; and her great-grandchildren Josephine, Elijah, Noah, Maddie, Samuel, Nico, Ethan, Cameron, Callie, Luke, Ellie, Ava, Alex, Jillian, Tyler, and Gracin.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Michael Stotka Jr.; her grandsons, Matthew and Eric; her sisters Stella, Helen, and Anna; and her parents, Joseph Ruszel and Mary Szmuc Ruszel.

Though our hearts are broken, Mom’s love lives on in each of us. She wasn’t just Josephine—she was Mom, Grandma, and Nana. Her love was the foundation of our family, and we are forever grateful for the faith, strength, and unconditional love she gave us. She will remain in our hearts forever.

Friends will be received at the William G. Neal Funeral Home, 925 Allison Avenue, Washington, on Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Church. Please meet at the funeral home at 9:15 a.m.