Josephine (Russo) LaPaglia

Mrs. Josephine (Russo) LaPaglia, age 91, of Utica, passed away on Saturday, February 18, 2012 at the St. Luke’s Home with the love and support of her family. Josephine was born in Utica on February 13, 1921, the daughter of the late John and Antoinette (DiNardi) Russo. In her youth, she attended local schools but was unable to acquire her high school education. But at the age of 76 she afforded herself the opportunity to complete her studies and received her high school diploma, one of her greatest accomplishments and proudest moments. On August 31, 1940 she married Frank LaPaglia with whom she shared 50 years until his passing on November 22, 1990. A well-suited couple, they worked hard together not only in their business ventures, but also in their family life. Josephine was admired for the care she provided to her husband during his health issues. During her younger years, Josephine was employed by the General Electric Company on Kent Street, and later with her husband, she was the co-owner of Jo’s Lunch located on Oriskany Blvd. in Whitesboro which became her ‘claim to fame’. Concurrently, she worked as a secretary at the Salvation Army, and lastly at the Mid York Library as an assistant. She then retired to a more leisurely life which included being with her family and sharing time at the casino. She traveled throughout the United States, especially enjoying Florida, and highlighted her journeys with a trip to Spain with her husband. She was a parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Josephine is survived by her daughter, Theresa A. Monopoli of New Hartford; her sons and daughter-in-law, Jack and Rosetta LaPaglia of Utica, and Francis LaPaglia of New Hartford. She was preceded by her son-in-law, Angelo “Ange” Monopoli. She also leaves her grandchildren, Marc Gabiger, US Army and his wife Lori; Kristin and Joseph Palmer; Scott Sebastian, and Joelle Sebastian; Jamie and Lori LaPaglia, Jason and Adina LaPaglia, and Jeremy and Morina LaPaglia; her 13 great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Agnes Russo, and Minnie LaPaglia. She was predeceased by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Joseph and Frances Russo, and Lawrence and Laura Russo; and her in-laws. The family extends sincere appreciation to the nurses, staff, and Certified Nurses’ Assistants at the St. Luke’s Home, especially those of Clark North, Clark East, Barton West, and Barton North. They provided a safe and loving home for Josephine. The family honored Josephine’s life in a private viewing. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Tuesday afternoon at 2:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Josephine (Russo) LaPaglia

February 13, 1921 - February 18, 2012