Josephine Labita

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, on April 1, 1934, Josephine was a vibrant and resilient woman

who dedicated her life to her family and her passion for education. She was the beloved daughter of

Michele and Sebastiana Labita and a cherished younger sister to her two older brothers, Anthony and

Joseph.

Josephine worked tirelessly to put herself through college, holding various jobs as a camp counselor,

an AT&T phone company operator, and an Italian translator. She earned her Bachelor's Degree from

New Paltz in 1958, where she met her future husband, Samuel Huang. They were married in New York

on December 26, 1959, and together they raised three daughters.

In the fall of 1974, Josephine and her family relocated to Riverside, California, seeking a warmer

climate. She pursued her dedication to education, earning a Master's Degree in Early Childhood

Development from California State University of San Bernardino. She had a gift

for connecting with people of all ages, especially children, and would utilize this natural aptitude in her

profession. Josephine became the director of the "We Care Baby Care" Center at Redlands

Continuation High School. This program supported teen mothers and their babies, where she made a

lasting impact for several years. She later moved to teaching kindergarten students in the Redlands

School District until retirement at age 73.

Beyond her professional life, Josephine enjoyed reading, gardening, and listening to the music of Tony

Bennett, Perry Como, Frank Sinatra, and opera. She had a gift for connecting with people of all ages,

especially children. Josephine enjoyed acting in "Joey and Maria's Dinner Theatre" for many years.

There, she delighted audiences in the role of "The Nonna" and showcased her fluent Sicilian. She had

a great passion for cooking, creating dishes such as meatballs and pasta, Braciola, and lasagna.

Sharing these meals with family and friends brought her the greatest joy. Josephine also enjoyed

traveling throughout the World, creating cherished memories, all captured in photos.

Josephine is survived by her three daughters and sons-in-law: Donna and Anthony Telliard, Dina and

Mark Shaw, and Debra and Kurtis Sharp. She was a devoted grandmother to Brendon Telliard,

Matthew Telliard, Elizabeth Shaw, Austin Sharp, Isabella Sharp, and Victoria Shaw. If you would like to

send flowers, the address is Montecito Memorial Park, 3520 E Washington St, Colton, CA 92324. If you

would prefer a donation, the family requests donations be made in Josephine's name to Voices for

Children at speakupnow.org in Riverside County.

Josephine will be remembered for her dedication, warmth, and the love she shared. Her memory will

live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

A funeral service for Josephine will be held Monday, July 7, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Montecito Memorial Park & Mortuary, Cypress Chapel, 24145 Barton Road, Loma Linda, California 92354. Following the funeral service will be a committal service from 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM at Montecito Memorial Park, 3520 E Washington St, Colton, CA 92324.