Josephine R. Matthews

Josephine R. (Cascio) Matthews, 95, of Rockford, passed away on January 10, 2026. She was born on May 5, 1930, in Sacramento, California, the daughter of Anthony and Rose (Pumilia) Cascio.

Known as Nana to many, she cherished her time spent with her family. She had a deep love for Jesus and found peace and strength in her faith. Josephine was a beautician and cut many of her grandkids hair down in her basement salon. She was an amazing cook and was well known for her pasta, cannoli’s, fried garduna, artichokes, and Italian cookies. Josephine spent time as a cook at the Olympic Tavern and was fondly known as “Mama Jo.” Art came naturally to her, as she was skilled at painting, cross stitch, crochet and more. She would also spend many hours outdoors tending to her vegetable garden and flower beds. Josephine loved bingo and would play as many cards as she could and was never without her good luck charms.

Words can not describe the love that Josie gave during her life, not only to her family but to her friends. She experienced great loss and trials in her life but kept on with gratefulness in her heart and a deep love for others. She warmed our hearts with her smile, her silliness and her love. She will be missed as the glue of her family and we will cherish every sweet memory.

She is survived by those who loved her most; daughter, Mary Jo (Phil) Cooper; grandchildren, Louis Pobjecky, Jennifer (John) Logli, Erin (Bret) Churchill, Philip Cooper, Steve Matthews, Andy (Yolanda) Matthews, Chelsey Matthews, and Gary Matthews; 11 great grandchildren; 6 great great grandchildren; and sister, Mary Angileri. She is predeceased by her 2 sons, Bob and Gary Matthews; great granddaughter, Jozie Pobjecky; and siblings, Angela Eklund, Bertha Santini, and Victor “Vito” Cascio.

A Funeral Mass will be on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Road, Rockford, IL 61107, with a Visitation prior to Mass at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

Please visit @holyfamilycatholicchurch5198 on Youtube to watch the Funeral Mass on livestream.