Search by Name
Menu
Search by Name
1938
2014
Giuseppa "Mamma Josie" Carollo
Smithfield - Giuseppa (Mamma Josie) Carollo passed away peacefully at home on December 31, 2014. Born on February 7, 1938 in Carini, Sicily, she came to the United States in 1960, settling in Brooklyn, New York. She worked in a textile factory and met her future husband marring in 1967. After the birth of their son Vincent, they moved to Virginia in 1974.
For the past 39 years, her and her husband operated Anna's Ristorante in Smithfield, Virginia. Her pride came in greeting and serving her beloved customers. Her greatest joy in the business was to make sure no one left hungry and everyone received plenty to eat. She would tell you "Mangia, Mangia" (eat, eat) and ensure you were amply satisfied with your meal. Her infectious smile and mannerisms with her family and friends will forever be sadly missed. Her husband Natale was one of her reasons for being. Family was everything to her and came as a priority in her life. She completely adored her son Vincent and wife Josephine. Their union gifted her a grandson, Natale. Although she was small in stature, she evolved as the matriarch of her family which included her nieces and nephews. Mamma Josie was a force to be reckoned with and she was respected and loved by her nieces and nephews, who routinely sought her advice, insight and wisdom.
She was preceded in death by her parents Giuseppe and Anna Russo; sisters, Nunzia Buzzetta, Rosaria Buffa, Anna Liguria and brother Cristoforo Russo. Mamma Josie is survived by her loving husband of 47 years, Natale Carollo; son, Vincent Carollo and wife Josephine; grandson, Natale and numerous nieces and nephews. She is also survived by sister-in-law and brother-in-law both here and Italy.
A visitation will be held from 4-7pm on Sunday, January 4, 2015 in Colonial Funeral Home. A Mass of Resurrection will be held 11:00am on Monday, January 5, 2015 in Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 300 Smithfield Blvd. 23430. Interment will follow in Parklawn Memorial Park, 2551 N. Armistead Ave, Hampton, VA.
Memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association, 870 Greenbriar Circle, Suite 404, Chesapeake, VA 23320 or to the National Kidney Foundation, 2021 Cunningham Drive, Suite 102, Hampton, VA 23666
Arrangements are in the care of Colonial Funeral Home, Smithfield, VA. Family and friends are encouraged to post condolences and memories at colonialfuneralhomesmithfield.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Her beautiful smile will certainly be missed by many. She always made you feel so welcomed and wanted you to enjoy. Thoughts and prayers continue for family.
Mary Nelms
January 20, 2015
There is one more angel in heaven! She was wonderful on earth and will be awesome in God's castle. It was an honor to know her.
Chuck and Gigi smiath
January 10, 2015
Mama Josie will be missed by all who knew her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time.
Irie and David Palagyi
Irie Palagyi
January 9, 2015
I will miss seeing Mamma Josie. I am keeping the family in my prayers. She was such a special lady and one that Smithfield will surely miss!
Elaine & Donald Grady
January 5, 2015
With our deepest sympathy and condolences to the Carollo family.
Leo&Judy Farris
January 5, 2015
So sorry for your loss
Bobby Nelms
January 5, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Carrollo family as they deal with the loss of a great lady. She was loved and respected by everyone she met and never met a stranger. She will be dearly missed by many many people.
Stephen and Helen King
Stephen King
January 5, 2015
May you rest in peace Mama Josie. You were always the peace maker in a chaotic, Italian, drama-filled restaurant. Frustrated and 16 years old at my first job, I would look to you when an angry customer would complain, if I dropped pizzas on the floor or if I shattered multiple wine glasses. In your eyes I would find solace. Your love and understanding for all of the people around you even in moments of complete disorder kept me at that restaurant named after your grandmother for three years. Only you. You have and will continue to inspire me to be compassionate and open hearted with everyone that I come across in my life. Thank you Mama Josie for letting me hold your hand and talk with you one last time this Christmas Eve.
Monika
January 5, 2015
We will miss her beautiful smile. Praying for the family.
Darrin & Tracey Lindsay
January 5, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. We will miss her smiling face at the front table. All the great family memories will be a great comfort.
Ray & Rena Putnam
January 5, 2015
Joe, Sal, Anna, Susan and family...I am so very sorry to hear about your dear Aunt's passing. May she rest with the Angels and your loved ones who have gone on before her. God BLESS you all!! Love, Prayers, and Peace to you...
Marie Watkins Hamann
January 5, 2015
We are so sorry to hear of Mamma Josie's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Carollo family in this time of profound loss.
Andrew Cripps
January 5, 2015
My favorite story about Josie...it had been quite awhile since we had been in to eat at Anna's. Somehow, Josie spotted my mom and came driving right over to her... "Where you been? You come in and eat!" When we did shortly after, she was so happy.
Josie was absolutely the most wonderful person I think I have ever known. I have long considered her part of my family, as I have Natale and Vinny. My heart is very heavy and my deepest sorrows to the Carollo family.
Dave Lyons
January 4, 2015
A wonderful lady and a dear friend - our hearts are heavy, bearing the burden of such a monumental loss - I will remember you fondly, Giusseppa! May God bring strength to the Carollo family to make it through this difficult time!
Valerie Delgado
January 4, 2015
Family,
She was such a sweet lady. She always had a smile to give! We are praying for the entire Carollo family that God grant you the peace that only He can provide!
David and Linda Rice
January 4, 2015
Visitation this evening was beautiful and so was Josie as always. My prayers are with Natale, Vinny, Josephine, little Natale (you're not little anymore but you will always be little Natale to me), and the rest of the family. Josie was a wonderful woman with a huge heart and she will always be Mama Josie to us. Josie will forever be loved and always in my heart and thoughts. We all love you Mama Josie and the rest of the Carollo family xoxo.
Christina and family
Christina Howell
January 4, 2015
Our deepest condolences to the Corollo family. We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We love Anna's and will most certainly miss Mamma Josie's smile at the front table.
Annette and Steve Bene
January 4, 2015
May God's Peace surround your family at this time. Our deepest sympathy.
Mark and Cathy Minga
January 4, 2015
Our hearts and prayers are with you, and may God give you comfort, and strength with each passing day.
Anthony, Debbie Leone and family
January 4, 2015
It was a true pleasure to have known her. She was a wonderful person and she will definitely be missed. I was her nurse for a short while and she would always have have something sweet to say. Most of the time I understood what she said...the other times I just smiled. Nevertheless I will miss her.
Tiffany Robertson
January 4, 2015
I worked for Josephine and Natale when they were in the other store across the street.
what sweet loving and caring people and God has truly gained an ANGEL. She will be missed by everyone who worked for her and new her. My heart is breaking at this loss. But I know she is finally resting in GOD'S !!! SANDRA MINGIN LANE
January 4, 2015
My deepest sympathy for the Corollo family. The obituary describes her beautifully... But words can't not describe this awesome women, her personality will forever live on.. She reminded me so much of my Italian mother and
grandmother... She will be dearly missed. Prayers and thoughts for the Carollo family.. Peace ?????????
Lorraine Dinga & Family.. Chris Dinga
January 4, 2015
Our prayers go out to the family of Josie. We will miss her so very much. We loved her very much. Ginger Mason, Julie Zeris and Jean Drummond
Jean Drummond
January 3, 2015
Prayers and fond memories are what we have to remember our dearly departed. May the love of family and friends comfort you during these difficult days, our most heartfelt condolences.
Steve & Vicki, Courtney, Alex Kincaid
January 3, 2015
May GOD Arm You All With HIS Strength During This Time.
Her Presence Will Never Be Forgotten! SUCH A Sweet LADY!
Our Thoughts and Prayers To All Of The Family and Friends.
Christy and John Jones/ CJ Jones
Christy Jones
January 3, 2015
Our prayers are with you and your family as you mourn the passing of your beloved wife, mother and grandmother. We have always enjoyed Mama Josie when we have dined at the restaurant. We will miss her smile and genuineness when we come in the future.
Bob and Ann Tioaquen
January 3, 2015
May God provide you all comfort at this time. My heart goes out to Natale, Vinny and the entire family. I worked for them when I finished high school. What awesome people.
Lilian Mingin-Baity
January 3, 2015
We send our deepest sympathy to the entire "Anna's" family.
Junior and Dianne Keen
January 3, 2015
My thoughts are with Vinney and his family. I can remember her looking for us in the apartments when we were kids.
Tanya Worrell Taskey and family
Tanya Taskey
January 3, 2015
An old friend is thinking of Vinney and his family. I can remember her walking around the apartments looking for us when we were kids.
Tanya Worrell Taskey and family
January 3, 2015
Natale, Vinny and family, I know your hearts are breaking. Miss Josie was always smiling and always treated me as though I were a daughter with her thoughtful advice when I worked there. I know she will be missed greatly, but is now in heaven singing with the angels.
Carolyn Skinner
January 3, 2015
Our heartfelt condolences to the entire Carollo family. Such a beautiful smile and spirit. Smithfield has lost a lovely icon...Rest in Peace Josie.
Cheri Hartford Cox
January 3, 2015
My sincere condolences an prayers are with Vinny an family . Josie was such a sweet an wonderful person an will be missed by many
Nicole Baggett
January 3, 2015
Such a Beautiful lady. My prayers for your family as you deal with your sorrow.
April Jones
January 3, 2015
Vinny and family my heart is heavy at this time.But I know your hearts are broken.but I hope you can find peace.knowing..that heaven gained a angel.She always treated deb and I so good.and she will never be forgotten
casey and debbie gibson/polston
January 3, 2015
Lots of love and prayers to the Carollo Family during this time! I was practically raised in Anna's Restaurant, my parents taking us in there at least once a week since I was just baby. When we had our daughter we kept the tradition going! She adored every one of her customers, especially the babies! Josie's smile was contagious, and could make all your stresses of the day disappear upon walking into Anna's. We will greatly miss her and that beautiful smile! She was always so loving! Her hugs made my day! Heaven gained a very special angel!
-Julie, David, & Dalaynie Douglas
January 3, 2015
My deepest sympathies to your family, may she rest in peace with our Lord.
Debbye walker
January 3, 2015
I'm saddened to hear the news of miss Anna passing I will always remember her smile and contagious spirit. Even as a teenager visiting Annas you all were such an encouragement to me! Keep the faith and spirit going! Hugs Holly Harris Scarborough and Family looking forward to many more visits at the Resteraunt
Holly Scarborougj
January 3, 2015
Our hearts and prayers are with our Anna's family and friends. We are so very sorry for your loss. We will surely miss Josie's sweet smile and spirit. May God's peace and comfort be with you all.
Kurt & Kathie Beach
January 3, 2015
Our sincere condolences to the entire Carollo family, we will keep you in our prayers. Momma Josie was such a sweet woman. We loved seeing her in the office and at the Restaurant. She always had a smile and kind words for the kids. I know she is smiling down on all of us now!
Kari & Jason Dechenne
January 3, 2015
So sorry to hear of your loss..even though I've been gone from Smithfield for years..Josie and Natale hold a special place in my heart! I felt part of the family even though I was just an employee! Praying for peace and comfort to the family.
Sharon Holleman Kuder
January 3, 2015
GOD bless you Josie...I and everyone that knew you will love and miss you. You were the best person that ever made me feel like I was someone in this world...and you always said..Don't let anyone tell you different.... I will miss you so!!!!!! Love Marcy
Marcy Burns
January 3, 2015
The heavens have gained an angel.Josie's hugs and smile were like no others. She always made me feel better when i got to see her!! Natale and family my heart is breaking for each of you. Take comfort in each other and the many wonderful memories you all share. Love and prayers to and for each of you.
Leslie Bowman
January 3, 2015
Pina you were a giant on our eyes may you be at peace with God and know that you were loved
Maria and Giuseppe Misseri
January 3, 2015
Beautiful lady. I remember helping and talking with her when I worked at Revco/Eckerd in Smithfield. She was always so cheerful and sweet. I saw her just a few weeks ago at Food Lion. She will surely be missed by many. Everyone who lived in this area or frequented Anna's knew her. Prayers for Carollo family and friends.
Penny McKee
January 3, 2015
Our sincere condolences to the Carollo Family. She was a wonderful woman with a contagious smile. I remember the first time we visited the restaurant she offered us the Holiday Panetonne cake and I think of her every time I buy and eat some of that wonderful holiday cake. Rest In Peace lovely lady!
Velma, Jeff, RoseAna and Vincent Craig
January 3, 2015
Give our grandson, Vincent, a big hug for us when you see him in heaven. Rest in peace.
January 3, 2015
Natalie, Vinny and family, with heartfelt condolences, We wish you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories, of Miss Josie, to forever hold in your hearts. Our sincere sympathy and prayers.
Denise Newby Tynes & Family
January 3, 2015
Hugs and prayers to the family. Josie was such a wonderful person and will be missed by the Douglas family.
jeanette douglas
January 3, 2015
This Obituary describes Josie so beautifully as the person she lived in this life to all who had the blessing of knowing her. She was a shining light when you walked in Anna's, with her infectious smile and hugs, always asking about your family and just a friendly chat. She was a wonderful loving friend. May God give comfort and love to those left behind. We will miss you so much, we always considered all of you as part of our family. Heaven has gained another Angel !!!
Donnie & Belinda Mason and Family
January 3, 2015
We are so sorry to hear
of Ms Josie. We will miss seeing her when we go into Anna's.
Roberr and Rhonda Garcia
January 2, 2015
We are sincerely sorry to hear of the passing of this sweet lady. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
David and Jane Faulkner
January 2, 2015
We were shocked and saddened to hear of Miss Josie's passing. Always enjoyed seeing and talking with her when we came in. She always had a smile and a laugh!
Jimmy and I always appreciated her coming to visit us when we brought Tyler home from the hospital as an infant. As a matter of fact, he was christened in that white outfit.
She will definitely be missed.
Jimmy and Pamela Oliver
January 2, 2015
Vinny and family sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful lady. When I worked their she always made me feel like I was part of the family. I always looked forward to seeing her smile daily. She truly will be missed.
Jennifer Fernaays Brewster
January 2, 2015
SUCH A GREAT LADY,I WILL MISS HER SO MUCH.LOVE TO YOU ALL.
DEBI OLSAVICKY
January 2, 2015
Such a wonderful lady! Josie you will be missed by so many people. I will miss seeing you at mass and I know your in heaven. One of God's special Angels. Peace be with you my friend. Prayers for all who loved her. Sue & Jimmy Thacker
January 2, 2015
To The Family,
May God give you the strength to endure the pain of your loss. May His power lift you up, He will make you firm and He will make you strong (1Peter5:10). I am truly sorry for your loss.....BR
January 1, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Josie. We will miss her special hugs when seeing her at Anna's. God bless you all.
Ronny (Joe) & Gloria Green
January 1, 2015
Vinnie and family: We are heartbroken to hear your sad news. So glad we got to see your Mom last week. You are in our hearts and prayers. Love,
Bill and Debbie Vaccarelli
January 1, 2015
My condolences to the Carollo family. We will miss seeing her at the first table. She was always friendly and gracious.
Spencer Charette
January 1, 2015
Her Smiling face will be missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you...
Sharon & Elmer Jones
January 1, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Carollo family with the passing of Miss Josie. She was kind and gracious in everything she did and she will be missed greatly by all of us who knew her. Table # 1 at Annas will never be the same without Miss Josie sitting there. We loved her very much and we will missed her deeply. Rest in Peace Josie.
Mary Hassell
January 1, 2015
Showing 1 - 62 of 62 results
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Jan
4
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more