Josephine S. Izzi

Josephine was born in Messina, Sicily on November 1, 1927, All Saints’ Day. Fittingly, Josephine embodied the virtues of a saint— grace, humility, compassion, empathy, and unwavering love. She carried those qualities with her throughout her life, touching everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

As an infant, Josephine immigrated with her parents to New York from Italy, later settling in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. She left school at the age of 14 to help support her family and worked diligently in a local mill. She spent most of her working life at the Rhode Island Textile Company, until her retirement at the age of 65. More than a decade later, she surprised her family by returning to work in food service at Providence College, exemplifying her resilience, strong work ethic, and commitment to serving others.

On April 24, 1946, Josephine married Anthony Izzi. They built a life together in Providence, Rhode Island where they lovingly raised their two children, Anthony and Lori. Family was the center of Josephine’s world, and she was an extremely devoted mother. Her unwavering love and selflessness knew no bounds as she was always available to support and care for her children at any moment. Josephine also treasured her role as a grandmother, and she was a deeply caring and nurturing grandmother to her two beloved grandchildren.

Josephine was also a gifted homemaker who found great joy in cooking, baking, and gardening. The kitchen was the heart of her home. An extraordinary cook, she was known for her generous hospitality and the delicious dishes and desserts she prepared. On Sundays, she hosted family dinners and would rise early to prepare her signature sauce. It was a cherished tradition and all were welcome. Josephine will also be fondly remembered for her homemade pizzas, which she brought to family, friends, and anyone she visited.

In her later years, Josephine remained devoted to her loved ones and found great joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as spending time with her family and watching golf. She was a constant source of love and joy to her grandchildren. With a heart open to all living things, she treated every person and animal with kindness.

Josephine’s legacy is of love, family, compassion, and selflessness. She will be deeply missed and remembered by all who had the joy of knowing her.

Josephine is reunited in heaven with her husband Anthony Izzi of 60 years; her parents Frank Marchese and Antonina (Gullo) Marchese; and her brother Phillip Marchese. She leaves behind her son Anthony Izzi; daughter Lori (Izzi) DeLisi and her husband Paul DeLisi; granddaughter Larissa DeLisi and her husband Jonathan Biliouris; grandson Michael DeLisi; and great-grandson Santino Biliouris. She is also survived by her sisters, Agnes (Marchese) Salvatore and Mary (Marchese) Cortez.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025 from 9:00-10:00 AM in the PONTARELLI-MARINO FUNERAL HOME, 971 Branch Avenue, Providence. Followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM in Saint Ann Church, 280 Hawkins Street, Providence. Burial will be held in Saint Francis Cemetery, Pawtucket.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals or a local animal shelter in honor of Josephine.

For online condolences, please visit www.pontarellimarinofunerals.com