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Josephine Teresa Vitagliano
1937 - 2016
Josephine Teresa Vitagliano
1937 - 2016
Obituary
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BORN
1937
DIED
2016
Josephine Vitagliano Obituary
During this time frame Josie and Sonny's family was growing as they were blessed with four grandchildren. Josie was delighted and devoted her time to her treasured grandchildren. Instead of daycare they all spent the day at "Nana's" house. She then started working part-time at a gym called Naturally Women. Here she quickly excelled from cleaning the equipment and greeting people, to becoming a fitness water aerobics instructor. Josie always made friends very quickly, and from her water class members emerged the "Water Babes" where she organized a monthly birthday club luncheon. Out of this social club began many friendships lasting to present day. And they all came to be blessed with good exercise, happy times, best friends, and good health.
Josie's favorite place was the beach where she loved collecting seashells and eating seafood. She and Sonny traveled to Italy, Hawaii, and California many times during their retirement. Josie and Sonny were married 54 years before his passing in 2011. Josie loved sewing, crocheting, knitting, and crafting and made many handmade gifts for her friends and family. She loved shopping, cooking, watching movies and eating out. Josie was preceded in death by her husband Sonny, son Alan, brother Vincent, sister Antoinette, and her parents.
She leaves to cherish her beloved memory her sister Millie and brother-in-law Frank, loving children son David & daughter-in-law Jennifer, daughter Marie & son-in-law Edward, daughter Gina, and four grandchildren Adell, Austin, Andria, Joey, and great-granddaughter Cayden, her nieces and nephews, best friends and extended family.
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Annette Willis
May 21, 2016
We are struggling day to day to keep going on since the passing of dear Josie BUT God is so good to keep her alive in our hearts. As we exercise we hear her voice of encouragement. We went to lunch and cards Friday and we couldn't help but to glance at the door expecting her to walk in. The angels gently whispered and reminded us of her NEW BEAUTIFUL HOME IN HEAVEN. We continue to pray for each of you. Lovingly, Annette, on behalf of the WaterBabes
Fran Jimenez
May 20, 2016
Sending thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May God bless you and keep you.
Marie V
May 12, 2016
Fill not your hearts with pain and sorrow, but remember me in every tomorrow.
Remember the LOVE, remember the JOY, remember the LAUGHTER, and the SMILES, I've only gone to rest for a little while.
Although my leaving causes pain and sorrow, my going has eased my mind, given me peace, reunited me with others we have truly missed.
So dry your eyes and remember me,
not as I am now, but as I used to be.
Because, I will remember you all,
and look on with so much LOVE and a SMILE.
Understand in your hearts,
I've only gone to rest a little while.
As long as I have the LOVE of each of you, I can live my life in the hearts of all of you FOREVER.
Marie V
May 12, 2016
Rest in PEACE our heavenly angel. I don't understand why the Lord has chosen to take you from us now, I only know the deep sadness I feel in every breath.
You have been a tremendous mother when I was young, and best friend as I got older. Always willing to listen and help, never hasty with advice, never judgmental with thoughts, always giving people the benefit of doubt, that there was goodness in them, even when someone had done something hurtful to me.
It must be delightful for you to finally be reunited with Dad, Alan, and our family who also rejoice in the place called Heaven. This is the only comfort I find in the deep sadness which lives in my heart now.
There are too many feelings and never enough words to describe the lifetime of love, joy, and happiness we've shared. I just wanted to light a candle for you so that the flame would forever burn with your spirit on earth.
Ciao Ciao
xxoo xxoo xxoo xxoo
Rest my sweet MOM, rest
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Francine Chillemi
May 8, 2016
If it is true that "you reap what you sow," then our Gentle Josie is enjoying a bountiful blessing of luscious colors, scents, and flavors on this Mother's Day, her first day in paradise.
We celebrate her and her adoring family and friends on this special day.
Sending love and comfort to everyone.
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox
Millie, Frank, Francine & Christina
Adell Madson
May 7, 2016
My sweetest Nana,
I love you. As I lay in your bed writing this mess I feel you with me.. In my heart and soul. I know that you loved me so dearly, that you truly will never leave me. We all are very heartbroken that you left us here on earth, but know you are soaring high, and protecting all of us in the Lord's kingdom. In everything I do, and say, I feel you. I need you to know how much I love you, and truly how much I will miss you.
I love you. You made me the woman I am today, and I want to thank you so much for always believing in me and never giving up, or losing hope. You raised me, and guided me to and through the Lord. I read my Bible daily thinking of you, and try to figure out how you would put it, or WWND (What Would Nana Do), and it always leads me to, never lose my faith and to always forgive. You will always be the strongest, most generous and loving, caring person I know and I know your love for me was nothing but unconditional..and everyone around me.
I love you. I hope heaven is all you ever dreamed of and more, and happy you were reunited with your love Papa Sonny and son Alan, and family. I would like to thank you for all the fond memories you gave me throughout my whole life and know one day, I shall see you again.
I miss you. I love you.I am so happy you fell in love with your Great-grandchild Cayden, as I know you will continue to send good vibrations of joy and love our way. "GOD LOVE HER, GOD LOVE HER" you would always say! And i will never forget everything you have done for me, for I am forever greatful and thankful.
I know you will be so proud of me, as I continue to reach my goals in life, and know you will be right there every step of the way. Your spirit is alive through me, through mama Gina, Cayden and Aunt MiMi..and we wish you the best of luck, starting your new job as God Angel.
You are such a wonderful woman, wife, mother, grandmother..I will continue you look up to you as you gave me the greatest gift someone could give..Joy. LOVE. Hope. Trust.
You mean everything to me, and I miss you so terribly already.. just please know how much I love you..to the moon and back
I LOVE YOU..I MISS YOU MY DEAREST NANA GJ RIP
WITH LOVE,
YOUR LOVING GRANDDAUGHTER
Adell Madson
May 7, 2016
My sweetest Nana,
I love you. As I lay in your bed writing this mess I feel you with me.. In my heart and soul. I know that you loved me so dearly, that you truly will never leave me. We all are very heartbroken that you left us here on earth, but know you are soaring high, and protecting all of us in the Lord's kingdom. In everything I do, and say, I feel you. I need you to know how much I love you, and truly how much I will miss you.
I love you. You made me the woman I am today, and I want to thank you so much for always believing in me and never giving up, or losing hope. You raised me, and guided me to and through the Lord. I read my Bible daily thinking of you, and try to figure out how you would put it, or WWND (What Would Nana Do), and it always leads me to, never lose my faith and to always forgive. You will always be the strongest, most generous and loving, caring person I know and I know your love for me was nothing but unconditional..and everyone around me.
I love you. I hope heaven is all you ever dreamed of and more, and happy you were reunited with your love Papa Sonny and son Alan, and family. I would like to thank you for all the fond memories you gave me throughout my whole life and know one day, I shall see you again.
I miss you. I love you.I am so happy you fell in love with your Great-grandchild Cayden, as I know you will continue to send good vibrations of joy and love our way. "GOD LOVE HER, GOD LOVE HER" you would always say! And i will never forget everything you have done for me, for I am forever greatful and thankful.
I know you will be so proud of me, as I continue to reach my goals in life, and know you will be right there every step of the way. Your spirit is alive through me, through mama Gina, Cayden and Aunt MiMi..and we wish you the best of luck, starting your new job as God Angel.
You are such a wonderful woman, wife, mother, grandmother..I will continue you look up to you as you gave me the greatest gift someone could give..Joy. LOVE. Hope. Trust.
You mean everything to me, and I miss you so terribly already.. just please know how much I love you..to the moon and back
I LOVE YOU..I MISS YOU MY DEAREST NANA GJ RIP
WITH LOVE,
YOUR LOVING GRANDDAUGHTER
Adell
Jovanna Stein, O.P.
May 6, 2016
Dear Josie
You were the inspiring and gracious woman who made exercise fun!
You will be sorely missed.
Karen & Josie
Mary Young
May 6, 2016
Flo & Josie 2015
Mary Young
May 6, 2016
Water Baby Christmas Party 2015
Mary Young
May 6, 2016
Water Babe Luncheon 2
Mary Young
May 6, 2016
Water Babe Luncheon
Mary Young
May 6, 2016
Joan & Josie
Mary Young
May 6, 2016
Josie and her scrapbook
Mary Young
May 6, 2016
Water Babe Christmas party
Mary Young
May 6, 2016
Flo & Josie
Mary Young
May 6, 2016
Jane Murray
May 6, 2016
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Water Angel Josie
Mary Young
May 6, 2016
Mary Young
May 6, 2016
Josie, you were such an amazing water aerobic instructor! Both my son and I benefited greatly from your dedication to living a healthier life by the "just keep moving" philosophy. You were an awesome inspiration on how you recovered from injuries and health issues to get back in the water and lead us through another session. You told me how much you missed your husband and son. That is a consolation that you are rejoined with them. We will miss you so very much! May you rest in peace my friend and I will continue to pray for your family during this difficult time. God Bless You <3
Annette Willis
May 6, 2016
Dearest Family of Josie, I am a WaterBabe who met your Mom shortly after I joined Natirally Women in the late 1980s. She was so warm and caring. She encouraged me in so many ways. We knew all of you thru Josie who loved you all dearly. She will be sooo missed but be comforted in knowing that she is in Heaven with our Lord and Savior and the loved ones who entered earlier are greeting her. Lovingly, Annette Smith Willis and family
Josie and her 3 siblings circa 1939
Francine Chillemi
May 6, 2016
Josie and her 3 siblings circa 1976
Francine Chillemi
May 6, 2016
A special couple
Francine Chillemi
May 6, 2016
Christmas at the Chillemi home, circa 1972
Francine Chillemi
May 6, 2016
Young Josie (on left)
Francine Chillemi
May 6, 2016
Josie's mother, aunt, and uncles
Francine Chillemi
May 6, 2016
Three Gorgeous Sisters
Francine Chillemi
May 6, 2016
Dinner at The Finish Line
Francine Chillemi
May 6, 2016
The Good Old Days
Francine Chillemi
May 6, 2016
My cherished Aunt Josie:
You have taught us so much by the fine way you have lived your life.
You were attuned to the needs of others, and you strove to bring happiness to the daily lives of the people around you. No matter how busy you were, you took the time to share a kind word and a smile. You had a cheerfulness about you that brightened many days. Although your voice was delicate, your laughter was effusive, contagious, and frequent. Despite your petite frame, you were a fighter. You stayed strong during difficult times but did not become brittle. You experienced profound sadness but did not become bitter. In your darkest hours you did not give up hope. You were a constant source of encouragement and support. And at age 78 you were still glamorous and youthful! Your clothes and accessories were carefully selected, and your hair and makeup were artfully done.
You enriched this world for your many friends and family members, from the youngest to the oldest and everyone in between. You frequently put your creative talents to work designing handmade gifts for every occasion, and sometimes for no occasion at all other than to express your deep affection and generosity. I have a box at the top of my closet containing a complete crocheted outfit that you made for my daughter Christina when she was 4. I will not part with that outfit because I know that you put a little piece of your heart into every inch of it. We also have slippers that you knitted, shirts that you appliqued and bejeweled, and wool hats and scarves labeled "Made Especially for You with Love from Josie." How exciting it was to receive a card or package from Aunt Josie! There is no doubt that you added a large dose of LOVE to EVERYTHING you did! And we loved you back with equal strength, and always will.
I would be remiss if I failed to mention your delicious cooking and baking! Whether you were whipping up Sunday gravy and meatballs, or an Easter wheatberry pie, you were very efficient in the kitchen and the results were delicious. You had excellent culinary skills to rival Giada, but you were also proficient at simpler meals such as wrapping hotdogs in aluminum foil to bring to the park for a birthday picnic for one of your cherished children or grandchildren. You always came up with original and fun ideas; you could make a party out of an ordinary day.
You were a true baby lover!! I remember when you first met my daughter when she was 3 months old. You had traveled to New Jersey to attend the funeral of your sister Antoinette. Despite your grief and jet lag from a long flight, your face lit up when you saw the baby. You exclaimed, "Let me see that baby!" and immediately reached your arms out to hold her close. You then determined that her diaper needed changing, and you promptly found the bag containing the necessary supplies, whisked the baby and bag into the next room, and then provided the tender care that you were famous for. But of course this short story pales in comparison to the hours, years, and lifetimes of nurturing and happiness that you bestowed upon your own children, grandchildren, and husband. You dedicated yourself 100% to raising your family. I'm thinking it's not a coincidence that God called you to be with him on Mother's Day.
There is a flood of memories starring you, Uncle Joe, and your 4 kids: the early days running around your yard in Roxbury, NJ; Gina on the front page of the newspaper with your prize pumpkin; parties in the backyard in North Arlington at Grandma and Grandpa's house on Illford Avenue; dinners in the Vitaglianos' basement in Newark and later at The Finish Line and much later at Luce; your farewell dinner at Perona Farms in 1973; the first time you returned to NJ with everyone packed into your car; summer days on the beach in Point Pleasant and LBI; pasta and seafood dinners outside the Neros' shore house with Uncle Joe's entire extended family; the cousins' parties and The War at the Shore basketball games; visits to the Solar Sun Club, lunches and dinners at many relatives' homes; your visits to NJ when you participated in our daily activities like cheerleading practice, taught an aquasize class at our pool, enjoyed time at The Bluejay Lodge, and even weathered a storm/ flood with us; our visits to Arizona when we saw what a beautiful life you had made there for yourselves; the time when you were studying for your test to become a water aerobics instructor and the sense of accomplishment and joy you described upon passing the test and instituting the Birthday Club for your Water Babes. There are countless priceless memories. When we were with you and Uncle Joe and your family there was always a lot of talking, music, food, and wine. Not to mention receiving a warm welcome at all times. What's not to like?
Although you were a modern and trendy woman with a mind open to new ideas (and you did not appear to be afraid of the unknown), you also loved and honored tradition. Your favorite topics of conversation, without a doubt, were the accomplishments of each of your children and grandchildren. Your family members and friends will miss you terribly but hopefully will find comfort in the knowledge that you lived a full and rewarding life and left so many uplifting memories to treasure.
You should be proud of yourself and of those you helped shape into good people who will carry on your legacy.
Rest in Peace, Gentle Josie, and thank you for being a wonderfully sweet, generous, and loving Aunt to me all my life.
xoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Francine (and Christina)
Sandy Peterson
May 5, 2016
To David, Marie and Gina and your families. I met your mother, Josie, about 15 years ago at water aerobics. Shortly after that I was a regular at the Water Babes. Josie was interested in each and every one of us. She encouraged us with phone calls, cards, and conversations. Your MOM had a heart of gold and we all loved her. We loved surprising her at our Christmas party with flowers and gifts. We are remembering all of you in our prayers. Love to you all, Sandy Peterson.
May 5, 2016
We will miss our dear sweet Josie, a friend of many years. She was the force that kept our Water Babes together and we followed her from Naturally Women when they closed to Pure Fitness. When Pure Fitness closed she found us another home at LA Fitness. Everyone continued to follow her as we all loved her delightful nature, loving ways, always such a gentile sweet spirit. I speak for myself when I say I have truly been blessed with Josie's friendship. May she rest in peace. Karen Blush
Janet Engelbert
May 5, 2016
Marie, it was my privilege to meet your mother - she was such a wonderful spirit. Dave and I are sending you and your family much love and healing during this difficult time. Jan & Dave
Dave Orocchi
May 5, 2016
Cristian and I our keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers. Much Love Dave and Cristian
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