Josephine Tarsia

Josephine Tarsia, formerly of New City, New York, and a resident of Delray Beach, Florida, peacefully passed away at her home on August 23, 2023, surrounded by her family. She is now reunited with her parents, Maria and Joseph Panzarella, her brother Sebastiano, and her sister Angie, who preceded her in death. Josephine is survived by her loving husband, Pat; her son Paul and his partner Alisa, along with their daughter Adara; her daughter Valerie and her partner Joe; her son Peter; sisters Mary (Jim) McCusker, and Betty (Tony) Postighone; and several cherished nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Josephine's memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her, by the many names she was called: Josephine, Jo, JoJo, Mom, Aunt Jo, Professor Tarsia, and perhaps proudest of all, Nana. Her deep love and famous lasagna extended far beyond Delray Beach, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who were fortunate to cross paths with her.

A graduate of Fordham University, where Josephine and Pat ignited their 50 year romance, Josephine began her career as a teacher in 1977, and worked tirelessly for her family until her retirement. In 2020, Josephine achieved a lifelong goal, and finally escaped the cold winters of the northeast to live near the ocean in Florida.

As a remarkable mother, she inspired her children to embrace healthy eating habits and create extraordinary culinary delights. As an accomplished professor and polyglot, she motivated them to explore multiple languages and embrace their Italian heritage. Her children are truly fortunate to have partaken in her lessons, and her college courses have even enriched the lives of their friends.

Until her health condition made it impossible, Josephine enjoyed travel, reading, pickleball, biking with friends, bible study, and shows and events at the Kravis Center. A lover of music, she was soothed by the sound of one of her favorites, Il Volo, through her final days.

With her radiant presence and unwavering pious principles, she treated others with the same respect she desired for herself. As she journeys on, her legacy as a shining example of fortitude remains, and the family emerges stronger after witnessing her fearless determination.

Please join us in celebrating her life Thursday morning on September 14, 2023, at 11am at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery, 10941 Southern Blvd, Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411.

Reception to follow at The Club at Dakota, Seaglass Terrace Ln, Delray Beach, FL 33446.

Casual attire, please.

For friends and family in the northeast, a funeral mass in memory of Josephine will be held on Saturday, September 23rd, 10:30am at St. Paul Roman Catholic Church, 200 Wyckoff Ave, Ramsey, NJ 07446.

The Lord said to Moses, “This is how you shall bless my people: The Lord bless you and keep you! The Lord let his face shine upon you. And be gracious to you! The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace!”

Numbers 6:22-26