Josephine was born on December 12, 1926, in Dallas, Texas, and entered into eternal life on Sunday, November 3, 2013. She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 63 years, John L. Benedetto, her parents Tony & Lillie Rotello Lampo, and her brother and sister-in-law John A. and Rose Laurea Lampo. She is survived by her loving children and their spouses, Rose (Allen) Dodson, Lynn (Margie) Benedetto, and Rick Benedetto. She is also survived by her adoring grandchildren Carla (Alessio) Giudice, John Dodson, Tony Dodson, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
As a child, Josephine attended Sacred Heart School, Alex Spence Middle School and North Dallas High School. In her sophomore year at the tender age of 15, Josephine decided to leave behind her formal education to work in the family grocery store, eventually becoming manager and owner/operator of the business. In 1946 she married the love of her life, John, and together as partners with their sons by their sides built a successful business as independent grocers serving the communities of South Dallas, South Oak Cliff and Fort Worth. They were members of Affiliated Food Stores and Grocers Supply of Houston. Josephine served two terms on the Board of Directors at Affiliated Food Stores from 1990 – 1994. She officially retired from grocery business in 1999.
Josephine was an outstanding cook and will always be remembered for the extensive spreads and beautiful feasts she prepared. No one ever left her home hungry as there was always more than plenty to eat. She was a dedicated, caring daughter to her parents, a loving and devoted wife and business partner to her husband, an adoring, supportive mother to her children, and a loving, caring, generous grandmother to her grandchildren. We will greatly miss her loving touch, the warmth and comfort of her voice, the strength of her presence, her sweet personality, and the tremendous wisdom and guidance she gave us.
