FAREWELL TO A SWEET LADY

The past week marked the passing of Josephine Mazzarella, mother of JoAnn Gordon, MSNJSA 2008.  Family, friends, and New Jersey Cameo Club sisters attended her wake on Sunday, February 11th at the Silverton Memorial Home in Toms River, followed by a funeral Mass this morning at St. Justin Roman Catholic Church.

Josephine was a woman whose warm smile and loving ways enriched the lives of all those who knew her.  She was so proud of her daughter JoAnn when she won the title of MS NEW JERSEY SENIOR AMERICA 2008.  Josephine loved to attend New Jersey Cameo Club Showcases, to hear JoAnn sing.  Over the years, she was a generous financial supporter of the annual MSNJSA PAGEANT.

Josephine was born in Newark, NJ, and worked as a clerk for the Essex County Probation Department.

Josephine made such a lovely bride of the forties era, when her name then changed to Mrs. Papasidero. 

 Unfortunately, tragedy struck with the death of her husband, and Josephine had to raise their two children, JoAnn and Joseph alone.  She was proud of her Italian heritage, and would welcome anyone into her home with with a delicious homecooked Italian meal.

Josephine was fortunate to find love again later in life, and was married to Joseph Mazzarella.  They lived in Lavalette in Joe's home, until he predeceased her.

During the last few years of her life, Josephine managed to enjoy life amid countless setbacks with her health, and JoAnn was always by her side.  They were inseparable - laughing, and crying together - hoping that the next day would be better.  Mother is gone now, and the hole that remains in her daughter's heart will be hard to close in the days, weeks, even years to come.

Josephine is God's very own now, and she is at peace.  As for JoAnn, please know that God also cares for you today and will take of you in this your time of sorrow and loss.  He will either shield you from your suffering, or give you the strength to bear it.  Amen.