Josephine Cornejo
June 11, 2026
Josephine Cornejo passed away on June 11, 2026 at the age of 96 years old.
Josephine is preceded in death by her parents, Juan and Maria Valdez; husband, Jesse Cornejo; 5 brothers and 2 sisters.
She is survived by her sons, Ron (Kendra) Cornejo, of Wichita, Marty (Jenae) Cornejo of Wichita, Donald (Becky) Cornejo of Rose Hill, Richard (Karol) Cornejo of Derby, Jerry (Teri) Cornejo of Wichita; brother, Louis Valdez; and sister Carolyn Perez; 18 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren.
Jo played an essential role, while raising her family and working from home answering the company phone, in helping her husband establish his trucking and excavating business, Jess Cornejo Trucking and Excavating. As the company grew, their five sons became involved in the family operation, which later became known as Cornejo & Sons Inc.
Together, the Cornejo family built and operated numerous successful businesses, including tortilla manufacturing, concrete production, asphalt paving, waste hauling, and many others. Through hard work, determination, and a commitment to family, they created a legacy that continues to impact the community today.
Faith and family were Jo’s greatest joys. She loved spending time with her family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was a hardworking, special lady who will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.
A memorial has been established with St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 1321 N Stratford Ln., Wichita, KSÂ 67206.
Upon her request a private family service will be held.
Services in care of Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Josephine Cornejo 's name.
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church
1321 N. Stratford
Wichita,
KS
67206
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Love, prayers and condolences to the Cornejo family. Your mother was a great lady. We enjoyed getting to know her at baseball games. You could tell she had great love for her family. With love David and Patty Wike.
Love, prayers and condolences to the Cornejo family. We enjoyed conversation and enthusiasm, at ball games, along with seeing the love Jo had for family. David and Patty Wike.
Mothers are special. Yours was exceptional. Wishing you Ron, Marty and family peace and comfort.
Donny, Becky and family, thinking of you during your time of loss. It sounds like she was a remarkable woman! May you have peace as you celebrate her life.
Lori Hadley
I know Jesse welcomed you with open arms.
RIP Josie!
Kelli (Caster) Copeland, David and family
To Jesse and Josephine Cornejo Siblings and Extended Families. Heartfelt condolences cannot completely express the sorrow felt with the passing of Josephine the Matriarch of your family. During the handful of years that I spent with your family I heard many stories of how she was the glue that bonded your family together. RIP Mrs Cornejo. You raised a wonderful family and you along with Mr J Cornejo should be proud of the lives you shared and lived together.
Deepest sympathies.
Ken and Dee Mueller
Scottsdale Az