Springfield - Who was ‘Jo’ Fitzgerald? Mother, grandmother, sister, wife, aunt, cousin, dear friend, daughter, educator, student; there were so many facets to Jo’s long life. She loved life and the adventures it brought, whether it be going to the beach with friends in her younger years, taking road trips to visit sites of interest with her family, or the Friday excursions she loved so much with her dear friend Ann Haskins.
Jo had an easy manner, was quick to laugh, loved hosting parties and was champion of the underdog, offering support for those in need. Her lifelong passion was reading and even after losing her sight, she continued to read using books on tape. And oh, how she loved ‘small world’ stories!
Josie was pre-deceased by her parents Edward & Linda Connolly, brother Jack & his wife Jane, sister Rita & her husband John. She was also predeceased by her husband Tom, much loved daughter-in-law, Laura Liucci Fitzgerald and dearest friends Ann Haskins, Mabel Saunders and Mary Bolger.
Jo was able to live in her own home until her passing thanks to the devotion, dedication and hard work of her son Danny and daughter-in-law Donna.
Also left to cherish her memory and celebrate her life are sons: Tommy & his wife Laurie, Michael & his wife Fran, and Patrick. Her grandchildren were the delight of her life: Max & his wife Christa and Kate, her soulmate. Jo also leaves her brother Edward and sister-in-law Emily Connolly, many nieces and nephews & cousins, devoted friend Cynthia Alicandro, Judy Hart, her daughter Megan, friends of all ages and finally her 2 faithful dogs Chief and Molly. She also leaves her devoted and compassionate caregivers, Liz, Kelly, Jen and Jane.
Her safe and peaceful transition to the next life would not have been possible without the loving care provided by the wonderful staff of Spectrum Home Health & Hospice Care.
There are no calling hours. The funeral service will be held at the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Agawam on Monday, October 2 at 1 PM. New England Funeral & Cremation Center, LLC, 25 Mill Street, Springfield, MA has been entrusted with the arrangements.
A memorial mass will be held in her honor on a date to be announced at a later time. She will be missed.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Perkins School for the Blind, 175 North Beacon Street, Watertown, MA 02472.
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