Monterey

Josephine Santora “Jo” passed away peacefully on January 14, 2025. Born on October 4, 1945 in San Nicola, Sicily. She was one of five children who emigrated with her family at 13 years old through Ellis Island (NY) before rooting her life in Monterey, CA. She married Victor Santora on September 2, 1972 spending 53 years together with two boys who she adored. Mom was always on the go, out and about in town, loved spending time in her garden and had excellent penmanship. She retired from MPUSD in 2010 after years in the classroom teaching children, loving each like they were her own as they passed through the halls of Ord Terrace Elementary. Although she was most known in the neighborhood for her time after school working at Monte Vista Video, where friends and neighbors alike would stop in. One could question if they came in for amovie or just to share a good laugh and talk about their day. She is survived by her husband Vic, children Phil & Jack (Jessica), grandchildren, Blaise, Landon and Jennifer, brother Tony and sister Virginia. Preceded in death by her mother and father, Francesca & Giacamo Sacci, brother Joe and sister Tina. She was the sweetest woman walking the earth with a heart as pure as Jesus. The city of Monterey will feel empty without her, but her memory will stay in our hearts forever. A celebration of life will follow in the fall.