Josephine A. Fiorello

Josephine Fiorello, a beloved matriarch and treasured family member and friend, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, at the age of 96. She was born on April 6, 1929, in Brooklyn, New York, where she spent her formative years surrounded by the vibrant tapestry of family and community. She later moved to Staten Island, NY to be closer to her children. Josephine's life was a testament to love, resilience, and the importance of family bonds.
Josephine was the daughter of Michael Mazzeo and Mary Garavuso, and she was raised in a household filled with warmth and laughter. She was married to the love of her life, Frank Fiorello, on October 22, 1950, in St. Francis Xavier Church in Brooklyn. Together, they built a beautiful family, creating a legacy that will carry for generations.
In addition to her beloved husband Frank, Josephine was preceded in death by her brother Michael Mazzeo and her son-in-law, Joseph Heron. She is survived by her three children: daughter Cecilia Heron, and sons Joseph Fiorello and Michael Fiorello, along with daughters-in-law Annie Fiorello and Cathy Fiorello. Josephine was a proud grandmother to Joseph Heron Jr (Jessica), Jennifer Heron, Frank Fiorello (Samantha), John Fiorello (Christie), and Stephanie Raffa (Brian), and a great-grandmother to the delightful Jackson Heron, Augustus Heron, and Frankie Fiorello Jr.
Josephine's greatest joy was her family. She was known for her exceptional cooking, especially her legendary Sunday dinners that brought everyone together around the table, sharing stories and laughter. She loved to keep busy, whether it was walking through her Brooklyn neighborhood, shopping for the best deals, or taking trips to Atlantic City to try her luck at the slot machines.
In her younger days, Josephine found immense joy in spending time with her grandchildren, often watching them roller-skate in her basement with their laughter echoing off the walls. Her relationships with her sisters-in-law were particularly special; they were not just family but her closest friends, and their gatherings created unforgettable memories. Josephine also enjoyed vacationing with her beloved cousin Josie and her husband Bobby, further enriching her life with shared experiences and love.
Josephine was known for her patience and kindness. Even at the age of 96, her mind remained remarkably sharp. She could recall every name, every birthday, and every detail to a story which is a gift that her family will forever treasure. Her warmth and hospitality illuminated the lives of those around her, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
Throughout her life, Josephine worked as an assistant at Aetna and later contributed to her brother Michael's plumbing business, showcasing her strong work ethic and dedication.
As we remember Josephine, we carry forward her legacy of love, laughter, and the importance of family, forever grateful for the time we shared with such a wonderful woman. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will always remain in our hearts.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11:00 AM on Tuesday at Holy Child Church located at 4747 Amboy Road Staten Island, New York 10312. Entombment will Follow in Resurrection Cemetery, Staten Island, NY.
The family will receive friends from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Monday, November 10, 2025, at John Vincent Scalia Home for Funerals, Inc., 28 Eltingville Blvd, Staten Island, New York.
In lieu of flowers should you so desire Memorial contributions in memory of Josephine may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105. or online at https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html