Josephine Gorvet 1930-2021

Josephine was born Feb. 14, 1930, in Freedom, Pa., to parents Carmelo “Charles” Pisano and Esther Frazzini Cercone. She graduated from Freedom High School in 1948.

She moved to Youngstown when she fell in love and married Bernard W. Gorvet in 1950. They were happily married until his passing Feb. 2, 1968.

Josephine then began her career as a librarian for the Youngstown City Schools at Jackson Elementary. She enjoyed reading books to all her students, and all the lifelong friendships she made while working there.

Though petite in size, she was a strong woman until the very end. She overcame any illness or adversity she faced in life. She was a breast cancer survivor for more than 50 years, and she beat COVID-19 last year.

You could always find Nana in the kitchen cooking up a meal. Whether it was Sunday dinner or a holiday feast, there was never an occasion too small and everyone who came left with a full stomach.

She is survived by her two sons, Bernard “Brusha” Gorvet and Anthony “Tony” (Pam) Gorvet; her six grandchildren, Christy Liber, Sandi Gorvet, Candace (Paul) Wanat, Bernie Gorvet, Marc Gorvet and Marissa Gorvet; five great-grandchildren, Victoria, Jacob, Luke, Clara and Anthony; a brother, Chester Cercone; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Robert Gorvet; sisters, Pauline Biroscak and Angeline “Ginger” Secre; and brother, Richard Borneo.

The family would like to thank Ed and Diane Reese and the entire staff at Briarfield Manor, especially Angie and Sarah, and all Josephine’s Hospice caregivers for their kind and attentive care.

Visitation for family and friends will be 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, May 12, 2021, at the Rossi Brothers & Lellio Funeral Home, 4442 South Ave., Boardman. A Mass of Christian burial will be held for Josephine 10 a.m. Thursday, May 13, 2021, at St. Christine Church in Youngstown. Meet directly at church for Mass.

Due to COVID-19, safety precautions will be taken. The 6-foot rule will be honored, and the funeral home asks that all guests whose health allows to please wear a mask at both the funeral home and church. For the health and safety of everyone, visitors are asked to not linger at the funeral home after paying your respects.

Family and friends are encouraged to offer prayers for the family and support via phone call, text, email or may visit the Book of Memories at www.rossifunerals.com.

(special notice)