Josephine Menzies-McFadzean

Josephine “Nena” Menzies-McFadzean

On July 26, 2026, the world lost a remarkable soul, Josephine Menzies McFadzean, lovingly known as Nena. Josephine was a devoted wife and loving mother, a woman of deep faith and a steadfast advocate for those she cherished. She lived a life defined by grace, quiet strength, unwavering faith, and selfless love. Her compassion, resilience, and generous spirit touched countless lives, and her legacy of kindness, devotion, and enduring love will be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She was born on August 7, 1957, in the vibrant city of Belize City, Belize. She passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with liver disease and other complications. Her grace in the face of adversity will forever inspire those who knew her. Josephine was the cherished daughter of the late Eglah and Arthur Raymond Menzies, who predeceased her and whose loving spirit she carried throughout her life. She is survived by her devoted husband of 43 years, Reburn McFadzean. Their love story began in Harlem, NY, in 1978.“Nena” would always boast they were born in one of the smallest cities in the world and yet met in one of the largest! Together they shared a life filled with joy, adventure, lots of partying and dancing, and unwavering partnership since their wedding on June 27, 1983, in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Reburn and Nena raised three beautiful daughters, Chanel, Britnae, and Ariel, who were the lights of her life. She was a supportive mother in law to Jerz, Teddy, and Bal. A proud sister to Raymond Menzies, Jane Bennett, Dawn Menzies, Therese Monroe, Frances Menzies, and Keith Menzies. Josephine was deeply connected to her family. She was a loving and doting grandmother to her grandchildren: Sienna, Madison & Xavier Herbert, Ayanna & Ayden Dennis, Chase Pettaway, and Faith & Brielle Tillett, who knew her as their fun grandma, their guiding star, and source of endless love. She is also survived by her mother in law: Frances Petzold, her brothers in law: Daniel Bennett, Jimmy Monroe, Victor Young, Ernest McFadzean, & John McFadzean Sr., Sisters-in -law: Sophia & Maxine McFadzean, and a host of nieces, nephews and relatives too many to name.

Josephine's academic journey began at St. John's Primary School, where she completed her primary education in 1969. She then attended St. Catherine Academy High School, graduating in 1974, before continuing her studies at St. John's College Sixth Form, where she earned her diploma in 1976. Inspired by a deep passion for education, Josephine dedicated the next two years to teaching at St. Catherine Academy and St. Hilda's High School, where she nurtured and inspired countless young minds. In 1978, she emigrated to the United States, carrying with her the same commitment to learning, service, and excellence that would continue to shape her life's journey.

She continued her education at Manhattan College in New York City, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1980, and was one of the first Black women in the college’s history to do so. She later earned her Master of Science degree from NYIT. Her life and career were defined by a deep commitment to education, mentorship, and helping others reach their full potential.

Josephine began as a Math teacher at St. Catherine Academy on Williamsbridge Road in the Bronx and eventually transitioned to the corporate world, working for Metropolitan Insurance Company. However, her true calling beckoned her back to academia. She dedicated 25 years to the Central Islip School District, dedicating herself to inspiring young minds or “scholars” as she would often call them. Following her retirement in 2022, Josephine returned to her beloved homeland of Belize where her passion for education remained as strong as ever. She resumed teaching at St. Catherine Academy in

Belize City, dedicating the next two years to inspiring another generation of students. She continued in the classroom until illness made it no longer possible for her to teach.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Josephine was deeply devoted to her faith and her community. She was an active member of St. John of God Church in Central Islip, New York where she also taught Religious Education for 24 years. Beyond her 25 years in the Central Islip School District, she dedicated countless hours to tutoring students throughout New York, helping them build confidence and achieve academic success. She was a proud member and Co-Founder of the St. Catherine Academy of Belize Alumni Association NY Chapter. Through her tireless fundraising efforts and commitment to community outreach, she touched countless lives, leaving a legacy of generosity, service, and compassion that will be remembered for years to come. She was the epitome of what it means to be a Mercy Girl.

A woman of many talents, she was an avid traveler who cherished the time spent with her grandchildren, creating memories filled with laughter and love. She will be fondly remembered for her quick wit, warm smile, and the kindness she extended to all who crossed her path. Her legacy of love, strength, and compassion will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the countless students she inspired.

Though she has left this earthly realm, Josephine's spirit will continue to guide and uplift her loved ones. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

We love you, Nena and you are already greatly missed.

Live stream links:

2:00 ~ 4:00pm:

https://together.oneroomstreaming.com/M6XG2N

7:00 ~ 9:00pm:

https://together.oneroomstreaming.com/J838UK