Mrs. Josephine (Valenti) DiNigro

Mrs. Josephine (Valenti) DiNigro, age 89, of Utica, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 28, 2011 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center surrounded by the love of her family. Born in Utica on January 2, 1922, Josephine was the daughter of the late John and Imaculate (Russo) Valenti. She was raised and educated locally. She married Joseph DiNigro who passed away on January 2, 1965; they shared an extraordinary relationship, mutually devoted to one another and so proud of the family they created. Josephine’s foremost responsibility was to care for her family and home. She was genuine in her concern for others. As a mother, she was unselfish, forgiving, and loved each of her children unconditionally and uniquely. She was happy with her maternal trust and never interfered with her children’s decisions, but was always a confidante and good listener. Her children will never forget her parenting skills. She was a self-taught woman in many areas of life including upholstering, culinary arts, sewing, crocheting, and knitting. She was also hospitable, welcoming all to her home. Generous of heart and soul, Josephine was industrious and always busy. She had a grand sense of humor and a perpetual smile; she was the life of the party. She loved the festive holidays, all set with an abundant table filled with food, love, and laughter. She enjoyed any opportunity to attend an event or visit with family and friends; she especially enjoyed the game of Bingo, and the casino. She had the gift of gardening and making plants grow. A lifelong Catholic and true believer of the Word of the Lord, her personal spirituality was the cornerstone of her life. She recited the Rosary every day and was a faithful parishioner of Historic Old St. John’s Church. Josephine is survived by her children and their families, Giovanni “John” DiNigro of Cassville, Madeline Voce and Sam Barone, Marie Cavoly, and Carol DiNigro and John Voce, all of New York Mills, Carmen and Maria DiNigro of Deerfield, Peter and Antoinette DeNigro of Herkimer and her daughter-in-law Janice DiNigro of West Winfield. Always close to her heart was the memory of her daughter, Kathleen Walker, who preceded her in death in 2006, her son, Joseph P. DiNigro, Sr. on October 31, 2011, her daughter-in-law, Johanne DiNigro, and her son-in-law, Robert Cavoly both in 2001. Also left to mourn her passing are her 14 grandchildren, always remembering Maria Lynne (DiNigro) Wawrzaszek; her 22 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She shared her life with 11 siblings, and surviving are 3 brothers, Joseph, Fred, and Anthony Valenti. Josephine was also blessed with the love she shared with her nieces and nephews and their families. Also surviving is her sister-in-law, Rosemary Valenti; and her friend and travel companion, Alice Latalla. She was predeceased by 5 brothers, and 3 sisters. The family is grateful to the 3rd Floor West staff, especially Rebecca of the Allen Calder wing, and Dr. LaGrant’s receptionist Patty for her compassion. Visitation will be held Sunday from 2:00-5:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Josephine’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Monday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at Historic Old St. John’s Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. John Buehler. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mrs. Josephine (Valenti) DiNigro

January 2, 1922 - December 28, 2011