Joselyn Uddipa Ribao, a former resident of Sitka, passed away in Juneau on October 13, 2025.
Joselyn was born on November 1, 1962, to Relisia Molina Uddipa and Franklin Uddipa in Bangui, Philippines. In 1970, she moved with her family to the Big Island of Hawaii, later relocating to Honolulu during her high school years. In 1981, she married the love of her life, Joel Ribao. Together, they welcomed their first son, Jay, in 1982, and their second son, Joel Jr., in 1984. The family moved to Juneau in 1985, where they completed their family with the birth of their daughter, JoyLynne, in 1986.
A year later, they settled in Sitka, where they lived for 20 years before returning to Juneau to embrace their new chapter as grandparents to their first grandson.
Joselyn, known to most as Mama Josh, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. Known to many as the heart and soul of her family, Josh’s love was unwavering and her presence unforgettable. She was the proud matriarch – the oldest sibling and cousin – who carried her family with strength, grace, and compassion. She loved nothing more than spending time with her loved ones, especially her four grandsons and grand fur babies, who brought her endless joy and laughter.
Josh will forever be remembered as the “karaoke queen,” whose beautiful singing voice and radiant smile could light up any room. Her laughter was infectious, and her spirit drew people in – always welcoming anyone and everyone with open arms.
A true servant at heart, she found fulfillment in helping others. She led countless novenas for families in need, offered comfort through prayer, and lived a life rooted in kindness and faith.
Throughout her career in banking, human resources, and office management, Josh’s professionalism, warmth, and care for others left a lasting mark on everyone she worked with.
Outside of work, she was a passionate foodie who loved sharing meals and memories with those she cherished. She was selfless in every way, always putting others before herself and living each day with generosity and love.
Josh’s greatest gift was the wisdom she shared – always guiding her family with life lessons, values, and morals that will continue to shape generations to come. Her words carried weight, her advice brought comfort, and her love provided strength.
So many were blessed to know her as more than a friend – she was a second mom or older sister to countless people whose lives she touched deeply. Her family and friends will forever carry her legacy – her songs, her smile, and the unconditional love she gave so freely, in their hearts.
Joselyn is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents Juanito Molina and Adoracion Molina, her paternal grandparents Florencio Uddipa Sr. and Sefonia Uddipa, and her father Franklin Uddipa.
She is survived by her husband Joel Ribao Sr., sons Jay Ribao (Emy Ribao) and Joel Ribao Jr. (Jessica Ribao); daughter JoyLynne Ribao (Mariah Simpkins); grandchildren Jace Ribao, Gavin Ribao, Torin Ribao, and Amias Ribao; mother Relisia Uddipa; siblings Jeanne Cumlat (Jan Kairuz), Jacqueline Gabriel (Troy Gabriel), Joseph Uddipa, Joyce Uddipa, Jane Uddipa, Leslie Beltran (Lydianne Beltran); and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Services were held Oct. 27 at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Juneau. Pallbearers were Efren Arce, Jegger Arsua, Jan Kairuz, Eddie Uddipa, Karel Uddipa, Ludy Uddipa, Bernie Yadao and Roel Yadao.
