Giuseppa Orlando

Giuseppa “Josephine” Orlando of St. Charles, Missouri passed peacefully into eternal rest on Friday, December 19, at the age of 81, where she was joyfully reunited with her beloved husband, Francesco.

Josephine was born on September 18, 1944, in Marsala, Sicily, to Paola and Angelo Pulizzi. Alongside her husband Frank, she immigrated to the United States with courage, hope, and an unwavering commitment to building a beautiful life together.

A talented seamstress and an exceptional cook, Josephine expressed her love through her hands and her heart. She worked side by side with Frank at their family pizzeria, Napoli Pizza, where she treated every customer not just as a guest, but as family. Her vibrant personality, warmth, and unmistakable presence left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Josephine had a rare gift for making people feel welcomed, valued, and loved—and she made friends wherever she went.

Josephine was the devoted wife of the late Francesco Orlando; cherished daughter of the late Paola and Angelo Pulizzi; loving mother of Joe (Teri) Orlando, Joann (Matt) Thurston, and Paola (Mike) Miget; and proud grandmother of Olivia, Sophia, Gia, Grant, and Miles, who were the light of her life. She was a dear sister to Pete (Joan) Pulizzi and Vita (Bob) Ahrens, and a beloved sister-in-law, aunt, great-aunt, and cousin.

Josephine leaves behind a legacy rooted in love, faith, hard work, and family—one that will live on through all who were blessed to know her and love her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association.