Josephine was born July 1, 1939, in Nottingham, England. She died Feb. 12, 2025, in Pagosa Springs, Colo. Josephine was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth K. Lewis Jr. She is survived by her daughter, Sara, and son-in-law Brian Collabolletta, of Pagosa Springs, Colo., and her brother, Philip Deavin, in Nottingham, England. She had five stepdaughters, one stepson, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Prior to moving to America in 1981, Josephine was a professional jazz singer. Her devotion to care for others prompted Queen Elizabeth to certify that Josephine was a life governor for services rendered to the Imperial Cancer Research Fund in 1977.
She lived in many cities in America and settled in Breckenridge, where she owned an antique store. She earned her certified appraiser with high honors certificate in 2009. She is remembered for her generosity as president of the Hospice Society and hosted its annual gala.
She was proud of her American citizenship. Having completed her classes in 2001, she was elected to be the voice for new Americans at her citizenship ceremony.
Antiques and music were Josephine’s passion. She loved to tell a story or two. She will be dearly missed by many in the Pagosa Springs community.
Jo was known for rescuing dogs. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Humane Society of Pagosa Springs, https://pagosahumane.org/.
Details will follow for services to be held this spring. You may also reference Horan and McConaty’s website, https://horancares.com/.
