Josephine Vaccaro of Somerville, quietly passed away on September 4. Josephine was married for 77 years to her devoted husband, Vito, who passed earlier this year. Born Josephine Della Piana, she grew up in Malden with her siblings Guido, Lucy, Angela and Gloria.

Josephine is survived by her loving children: Vivian and Bill Nelson of Foxboro, Phil and Dottye Vaccaro of Reading, Nick and Tonna Vaccaro of Fort Myers FL and Joanne Vaccaro of Boston. Josephine was a doting grandmother to Eric Nelson and Marie Maffei, Scott and Rashmi Nelson, Karen and Tom Morrissey, Philip and Michele Vaccaro, Craig and Amber Vaccaro, Tara and Hal Gudmundsen, Tonna Vaccaro and Nicholas and Hope Vaccaro.   Josephine is also survived by many loving great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Josephine was the consummate mother, devoted to her children. Her Della Piana nieces often said that she was their role model. Her grandchildren (and great grandchildren) were her 'little dollies'. They remember grandma's soft hands, and Italian cooking, especially her delicious meatballs, lentil soup and roasted potatoes.

Throughout her 98 years, Josephine was a sweet, loving woman. Well into her 80s, she was Florence Nightingale to older friends and family, bringing food, companionship and her beautiful smile. She loved helping others.

Josephine's was a woman of faith. Her belief in God provided comfort and support. She led with her heart, counting her blessings daily. She truly was an inspiration to all who knew and loved her.

Services for Josephine will be at Doherty Funeral Home, Powder House Square/Broadway, Somerville on Thursday, September 8.  Visitation is 9:00 - 10:30 AM followed by a funeral mass at St Clements Church, Warner St, Somerville/Medford line at 11:00AM.  Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Services will conclude with burial at Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Alzheimer's Association (alz.org) or the charity of your choice.