Josephine Palumbo

Josephine Palumbo, age 95, of Selden, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025, surrounded by the love of her devoted family. She is now joyfully reunited with her beloved husband, Salvatore, with whom she shared 60 wonderful years of marriage.

Josephine’s legacy lives on through her loving children and their spouses: Jennie Wunsch and her husband Gary, Constance Calleja and her husband Robert, and Frankie Palumbo. She was the cherished grandmother of Jennifer and Brian DeGorter, Gary Jr. and Carolyn Wunsch, Christopher and Catherine Wunsch, Daniel and Gina Calleja, Carissa and Robert Calder, Robert Jr. and Lauren Calleja, Leah and Anthony DiNicola, Nicolle and Matt Neville, and Amanda and James Muse.

Her joy multiplied through her many great-grandchildren: Brian James, Matthew, and Adam DeGorter; Cara and Christopher Wunsch; Emery and Noah Calleja; Ziyah, Bryden, and Rylan Calder; Loren and Amelia DiNicola; Kyla, Kasen, and Kenna Neville; Arabella, Malia, and Maverick Muse. She was also dearly loved by many extended relatives and friends.

Josephine dedicated her life to her family, proudly embracing her role as a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her greatest happiness came from caring for those she loved—whether through her cooking, sewing, dancing, or her talent for entertaining. Her home was always a place of warmth and welcome, filled with laughter, music, and the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals. She had a gift for making people feel like family and found joy in singing Italian songs, whistling, and sharing her vibrant spirit—often through her ever-growing collection of sunglasses.

She remained active in her community, particularly through her church’s senior group and various local events. Holidays were her most cherished times, when generations of family would gather to create memories that will live on forever.

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A Message from Her Loving Family

In loving memory of Josephine “Pina,”

Our beautiful matriarch, the heart and soul of our family.

For 95 incredible years, Josephine lived a life defined by love, compassion, and unwavering selflessness. Her radiant smile, contagious laugh, and warm presence could light up any room—and she made everyone feel like they belonged.

A proud Italian woman, she found her greatest joy in caring for her family, especially through her incredible cooking. From her homemade pizza, rice balls, and zeppole to her legendary Italian crullers and Sunday dinners, every meal was made with love and tradition. Her kitchen table was the heart of our home—where stories were shared, laughter echoed, and memories were made.

Josephine’s love was the thread that held our family together. She taught us the importance of unity, generosity, and kindness, and her legacy of strength and love will live on through us all.

She was deeply loved, and we were so blessed to call her ours.

Forever in our hearts, until we meet again. 💕