Josefina Jabonillo Obituary

Josefina Sena Jabonillo

March 19, 1952 - January 7, 2026

Josefina Sena Jabonillo passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at the age of 73, surrounded by her family at Marian Hospital in Santa Maria, CA.

Born on March 19, 1952 in Tambong, Gloria Or. Mindoro, Philippines, Josie was born to Belen Sena and Laurentino Sol, and was the 1st grandchild of Tomas and Cresencia Sena, who had 9 children in total. She earned her bachelor's degree in Marketing from Philippine College of Commerce and worked at the leading Engineering firm in the Philippines, "PIECO" until she migrated to California, USA in 1981.

On May 29, 1982, Josie married Rolando Jabonillo at St. Mary of the Assumption Church and over the span of 43 years, raised a loving family rooted in Santa Maria, CA.

Josie worked at Denmat in assembly, and then for Santa Barbara County, Public Works for over 33 years. Her dedication and work ethic earned her a Commendation Award by Santa Barbara County, the highest award that can be given to a retiree.

Josie was known for her blunt, straight forward talk, matter-of-fact humor, unwavering conviction, laughter, kindness, jokes, thoughtfulness, devotion to her family and patron Saint Joseph in which she was named after, cooking of Filipinos dishes like pancit, lumpia, mami soup and many other delicious recipes, love of gardening, bouquets of orchids and gifting quirky but always useful gifts.

Josie is survived by her husband Rolando Jabonillo, children Arjay and Gladys Jabonillo, Joanne and Richard "Junior" Chojnacky, grandchildren: Tevin Anthony Jabonillo and Raya Belle Chojnacky.

Viewing will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 5:00 pm to 7 pm at the Chapel of Dudley Hoffman Mortuary.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 9:30 am at Saint Mary of the Assumption Church in Santa Maria followed by burial at Santa Maria Cemetery.

Visit www.dudleyhoffmanmortuary.com to leave a condolence for the family.