Josephine Provenzale

JOSEPHINE “JOSIE” PROVENZALE (nee Galipo) age 96, beloved wife of the late Anthony J. “Tony”, loving mother of Thomas (Janice Reebel) and Stephen (Veronica deceased); devoted grandmother of Veronica Provenzale (partner Michelle Walczak), Vanessa Provenzale (fiancée Alan Shaffer), Vincent Provenzale (wife Amanda), and Stephanie Furino (husband Tony) and great-grandmother of Ethan, Cailyn, Harrison, Rhys, Lincoln, Francesca and Eva; cherished daughter of the late Joseph and Rose (nee Argendizzo) Galipo; dearest sister of Charles Galipo (wife Connie) and the late Joseph Galipo (wife Cindy); dear aunt and great-aunt of many. 

Josephine was born on January 4, 1928, in Philadelphia, PA. After living briefly in Philadelphia and Washington D.C., her family moved to Cleveland's Little Italy. Despite growing up only a few streets apart, she didn't meet her husband Tony until after the war at the Aragon Ballroom. Legend has it that when Josie and Tony first met, they quickly discovered they shared the same birthday – January 4th. Tony also said, “You’re not going to believe this, but I have a twin, and her birthday is January 4th too.” Josie said, “Well, you’re not going to believe this, but my brother Joe, who is 8 years younger than me, has a January 4th birthday too!” It was written in the stars. Thus began the tradition of very large January 4th birthday parties. 

Josie was very family oriented and spent her years as a homemaker. She loved to bake Italian cookies, and no one could make better meatballs, as her husband regularly bragged. Often you would find her dancing in her kitchen. While listening to Tom Jones, ABBA, or Liberace on the radio, she'd stir her famous spaghetti sauce. Music made her happy, and she was always proud that she got to see The Beatles in 1964. She remained a Paul McCartney Fan Club member for many years. For over 30 years, she was an avid bowler participating in many women's leagues. Josie belonged to the Little Italy Retirees Club as well. This strong-willed woman had a great laugh and loved a good joke. Above all, she will be remembered for her loving care and devotion to her family. She will be greatly missed by her family and all who had the pleasure of knowing her. 

Contributions may be made in memory of Josephine to her Treasured Memories fund by clicking HERE.

Prayers of Christian Burial Wednesday, July 24, 2024 at 11 AM at THE FUNERAL HOME. Burial following at Knollwood Cemetery. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Josephine at THE DeJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF WILLOUGHBY HILLS, 28890 CHARDON ROAD (between Bishop Rd. and Rt. 91) WEDNESDAY MORNING from 10-11AM.