Josephine S. "Jo" Petrea

Josephine S. "Jo" Petrea, age 88, of Bear, Delaware, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, November 9 th, 2025.

Jo was born in Chester, Pennsylvania, on February 28, 1937, the second youngest of six children. She graduated from Nether Providence High School in 1955. Jo was blessed with three children, whom she raised with great integrity and love.

She enjoyed a 34-year career with Bank of Delaware/PNC Bank, advancing from a part time teller to Vice President and Regional Manager of Major Buildings. She was admired by all who worked with her, and her professional friendships endured well into her retirement.

Jo was predeceased by her parents, James C. and Dorothy M. (Chandler) Sweeney; her brothers, James C. Sweeney and John W. Sweeney; her sisters, Nancy Starkey, Dorothy Fleming, and MaryLou Stevens; and her beloved son, David Petrea, whom she dearly missed since his passing in 2017.

She is survived by her daughters, Melanie Nixon (Robie) and Melinda "Sammy" Mizenko (Joe Durso); five granddaughters, Marissa Fernandes, Sadie Fernandes, Amy Mizenko, Aly Mizenko, and Alana Petrea; and her cherished great-granddaughter, Josephine "JoJo" Fernandes, with whom she delighted in spending time.

Jo loved her family, was a happy warrior, and died living a sober life.

The family of Josephine Petrea extends sincere gratitude to her medical team, whose dedicated care enabled her to enjoy 38 additional years of life. Her recent care from Delaware Hospice was provided with great kindness, compassion, and respect.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 24, 2025, at Deerfield Country Club, 507 Thompson Station Road, Newark, DE 19711, where a Celebration of Life will begin at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow after the celebration of life. Interment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Christiana Fire Company, EMS, Attn: Administrator, 2 East Main Street, Christiana, DE 19702; and Delaware Hospice, 630 Churchmans Road, Suite 200, Newark, DE 19702 or online by clicking here.