Josephine A. Alfano

Josephine A. Alfano, 89, of Rockford, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on November 25, 2018. Josephine "Jo" was born in Rockford on September 14, 1929, daughter of Charlie and Angelina (Cannella) Russo. She graduated from East High School, where she enjoyed GAA sports activities. Josephine married her beloved husband Barney A. Alfano, on November 13, 1948, at St. Anthony Catholic Church; they enjoyed 68 years of marriage. Josephine and Barney were active members at the Cathedral of St. Peter. Josephine especially enjoyed the fun, food, and laughter of family gatherings in her home. She was skilled in cooking and gardening; creative in arranging flowers, sewing, and crafts. More than anything, Grandma "Jo Jo" (as known to her grandchildren) loved her family. She will truly be missed.
Surviving relatives include her three children; Don (Linda) Alfano, Veda (James) Shepardson, and Charles (Greta) Alfano; nine grandchildren, Lisa (Jason) Osborne, Christopher Alfano, Steven Alfano, Richard Shepardson, Mark (Chiyoko) Shepardson, Scott (Kathryn) Shepardson, Lauren (Christopher) LiCausi, Nicholas Alfano, and Alysia Alfano; and three great-grandchildren, Alexander and Emmett Osborne and Gianna LiCausi. Josephine is predeceased by her husband, parents, and brother, Joseph Russo. Her closest relatives and best friends have been Joseph and Ann Alfano. The family would like to thank Doctors David Cheng, Donald Rabor, Sangita Deveshwar, and NP Meghan Hess for their special care over these past years; and more recently caregiver Tina Jimanez and Northern Illinois Hospice.
Celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 1, 2018, at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Rockford. Visitation will take place in the church from 10:00 a.m. until time of service. Entombment will conclude at Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established.
Arrangements completed by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61108. Share online condolences and memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com