Josephine Ball Obituary
Josephine attended elementary school in Williamsburg, NY. She was a 1957 graduate of Hunter College High School in Manhattan. After high school she earned a bachelor's degree from St. John's University in Queens, NY and a master's degree in chemistry at the University of Connecticut.
Josephine was among the earliest volunteers to the Peace Corps in the 1960's soon after President Kennedy called on the nation's youth to, "Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country." She taught chemistry at the Universidad del Norte in Antofagasta, Chile. She later married her husband James, another Peace Corps volunteer, in Chile.
She was above all a kind, gentle, and loving person who made friends easily and often. Her smile and warmth were infectious, her meals were culinary delights, her intellect was keen, and her compassion was beyond measure.
Two memorial events will be planned to recall her beautiful and extraordinary life: one in Santa Fe and the other in New York.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
John Jakait
February 8, 2025
Emily, I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your mom, Josephine. I'll always remember her warm smile and generosity. My heart goes out to you and your family during this difficult time.
Rosanne Sanchez
February 6, 2025
I remember when I first got hired at the Air Quality Bureau. The group I was being hired into were cooks. Before leaving the area where I was, Josephine said that if part of my interview required food, she would be happy to provide that for me. What an absolute love. She was always a delight to talk to over the years. I'll miss her as I'm sure others will as well. My heartfelt sympathies to her family and friends.
Misa Onishi
February 4, 2025
When I first met Josephine, I was 11 years old. I didn't speak any English, but she patiently and kindly taught me a lot. Her daughters let me play with them and I made some great friends. All of the food she made was very tasty and excellent. When I felt homesick, her smile soothed me. She took me hiking, ballet, shopping, gave me horse rides and took me everywhere. Every few years when I went to New Mexico, she always came to see me. Many happy memories are my treasures.
Teri Waldron
February 4, 2025
Josephine was in an office next to mine at the Air Quality Bureau. I will always remember her creative lunches, easy laugh and spirit full of life as she persevered through the day - offering strength and words of wisdom to those of us who periodically could use a little guidance. She will be greatly missed.
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Jeanne Gill
February 3, 2025
I was so sorry to hear about Josephine´s death. I am part of the morning meditation group and always enjoyed Josephine´s warm smile and positive attitude. She seemed to get pleasure from everything, especially her travels. She is really missed.
Jeanne Gill
Christina Borja
February 1, 2025
Emily, thank you for sharing; it was lovely to read about her life. You, Wes and Talya are in our thoughts and prayers.
Paula Donahue
January 31, 2025
I have meditated with Josephine for 5 years 5 days a week on zoom. Despite our connection just being online I felt a personal closeness with her. She was a very special person. So full of life and light and so interested in everything and everyone around her- in person or online. Wow, do I miss her.
James, I never met you, but know how special you were to Josephine. Wishing you strength and healing. Paula
Denise Cavner
January 31, 2025
I first met Josephine at a Chakra class I was presenting. She was full of enthusiasm and a kind energy. We hit it off right away. She then joined our morning meditation class. Each weekday morning for the last three years, I got to enjoy her presence and beautiful smile. She was a gift to the world.
Shelli Evans
January 30, 2025
I never got to meet Josephine in person. I did see her (when we weren´t traveling) 5 mornings a week for the past 4 years . She was Always Very Special to me. Her "glowing light" filled her little square we each have in our meditation group. She surely will be missed. She always filled my heart with joynamaste, Josephine
Your meditation buddy, Shelliy
Lisa Killion
January 30, 2025
I knew Josephine from my days at the NM Air Quality Bureau. Every so often she brought in a baked treat to share. Josephine was a most kind and intelligent woman.
To hear of her recent passing was such a sad surprise. I offer my deepest sympathies to her family and friends.
Fran Chandler
January 30, 2025
Spending one summer when I was about 16 with her in Santa Fe where I remember making eggs and tortillas for breakfast!
David Kosh
January 30, 2025
Sending all the love I can. Josephine is one of the great humans.
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