Jo Ann Clarizio

Surrounded by loving family, Jo Ann Clarizio, A life long resident of New Rochelle passed away on Saturday August 15th. She was 65 years old. Born in Mount Vernon to Anthony and Josephine Pavone Jo Ann was one of three children. Jo Ann graduated from New Rochelle High School in 1973, one year ahead of her high school sweetheart Ottavio Clarizio. Jo Ann and Ottavio would marry in Blessed Sacrament Church in 1978 and later be blessed with two wonderful daughters Jennifer and Laura. Jo Ann was a stay at home mom until her kids grew up. She would then follow her passion for taking care and educating children. She spent 25 years teaching at the Huguenot Nursery School. All who knew her were touched by her warmth, generosity and kind heart. In her spare time Jo Ann loved to travel, read and cook. She travelled to Italy, France, all the Caribbean Islands and Mexico… France being her favorite. She will be remembered as a selfless, caring, and gentle soul. She always worried about others before herself. She was compassionate, caring and always put family first. Jo Ann is survived by her husband of 42 years; Ottavio, her daughters; Jennifer (David) Kalaminsky and Laura Clarizio. She will also be missed by her mother, Josephine Pavone, her brother, Anthony (Anne) Pavone, Sister, Patricia (John) McDonald and all of her nieces. She was Nana to her grandchildren; Hudson and Alessa who were the love of her life. Jo Ann is predeceased by her father Anthony Pavone. A Celebration of Jo Ann's life will take place at the Pelham Funeral Home located at 64 Lincoln Avenue in Pelham on Tuesday August 18th from 4-8PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Holy Family Church located at 83 Clove Road in New Rochelle on Wednesday August 19th at 9:30am. Burial will follow at Beechwood Cemetery. In Lieu fo flowers donations may be made in Jo Ann's name to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. (www.pancan.org). For more information or to leave a condolence please visit www.pelhamfuneral.com.