Josephine A. Lafleur

Josephine A. Lafleur, a loving mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully at her home in Freetown on January 12, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on November 30, 1939, in New Bedford, she was a longtime resident of East Freetown, Massachusetts.

Josie’s childhood years were spent at Holy Rosary School and St. Anthony High School. She pursued her passion for nursing at St. Anne's Nursing School, where she earned her degree in Nursing. She furthered her education by earning a Bachelor's degree from Salve Regina University.

Her professional journey as a registered nurse was marked by her service at Union Hospital, Francis P. Memorial Hospital, and Parkwood Hospital. She retired as a case manager from St. Luke's Hospital, leaving behind a legacy of care and compassion that touched countless lives.

Josie was preceded in death by her beloved spouse, Alfred E. Lafleur, with whom she shared 62 years of marriage. She was joyfully reunited with Fred in heaven on his birthday. She was the cherished daughter of the late Adrien J. Rock and Angela B. (Hamel) Rock. She is survived by her son, Neal Lafleur, and his companion Jill Swartzendruber of Assonet; her daughter, Karen Dee, and her husband Jimmy of New Bedford; her daughter, Michelle Souza, and her husband Mike of Fairhaven; and her daughter, Lisa Rogan, and her husband Scott of Mansfield.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Courtney (Ed) Brightman, Matthew Lafleur, Meredith (Andrew) Barroso, Peter (Alyssa) Ouellette, Casey (Chris) DeMello, Ben (Cristine) Souza, James and Jonathan Dee, Luke and Paige Rogan. She was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: Tyler and Sloane Brightman, and Xander Barroso. Josie is survived by her sister, Pauline Joaquin, and her brother, Adrien Rock. She was predeceased by her siblings, Lucien, Origene and Marcel Rock, and is fondly remembered by several nieces and nephews.

Josie's life was enriched by spending time with her family, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and her beloved cousin Rachel. Josie cherished her circle of friends, who were like family to her. She enjoyed many adventures with her best friend Muriel and they shared many laughs with the Crafty Chics. Josie was always on the go, embracing every opportunity for an adventure with enthusiasm and a zest for life. She enjoyed traveling and was an avid New England sports fan, including attending several Super Bowls. Josie held dear several traditions; family trips to Hampton Beach, which included four generations, spending time in Fort Lauderdale with Rachel and the gang, and trips to Vermont with her cousins. She was an active member of the St. Anne's Nursing Alumni and a member of the St. Luke's Retirement group.

Her memory will be treasured by all who knew her, and her legacy of compassion and love will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025 from 4-7 pm in the Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford. Her Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 10 am in Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, 121 Mt. Pleasant St., New Bedford. Burial is private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Josie’s memory can be made to the Rhonda Couto Patient Comfort Fund at the Southcoast Health Cancer Center, c/o Philanthropy at 141 Page Street, New Bedford, MA 02740, or online at:

https://bit.ly/CoutoFundCCC

For online tributes, please visit: www.rock-funeralhome.com