Josephine Josie Pecorelli

Josephine "Josie" (Ferraro) Pecorelli, 102, of Worcester passed away peacefully with family gathered by her side, Wednesday, November 11, 2015. . Josie was born in Worcester, 102 years ago on February 3, 1913, one of 12 children of Italian immigrants John and Carmella (Mangano) Ferraro. She was educated in Worcester, met and married; Thomas Pecorelli. Settling in the Grafton Hill section of Worcester, Josie and Tom lived there until Tom passed away in July of 1990. Josie continued to live in her home in good health until she passed. Josie worked for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, in the Cafeteria of the Worcester State Hospital over 17 years before retiring. She is survived by her two sons, James J. Pecorelli and his wife Jane of Lakewood Colorado, Natale "Nat" Pecorelli and his wife Carole of Sterling; six grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; nine great great grandchildren; Many nieces, nephews and extended family members. Her grandson, Thomas Pecorelli was killed in the 9/11 attacks. Six brothers, Paul, Anthony, Louis, Angelo, Natale and Frank Ferraro and a sister, Mary Fasano all also pre deceased her. Josie was a founding member of Our Lady of Loreto Church. A onetime member of the Mt Carmel Golden Years and St Anne's senior citizens associations. An Italian mother; heritage, tradition and faith were the principles that kept her grounded and helped her through life's challenges. She was the backbone of her family and remained devoted to her nearest and dearest, especially her four generations of family especially her grand, great and great great grandchildren. Holidays in Josie's house were always filled with Italian specialties and treats. Her passing leaves a hole in her family, but her memory and inspiration will never be forgotten. Josie's funeral will be held Saturday, November 14th from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St with a procession to Our Lady of Loreto Church, 33 Massasoit Rd where her Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 am. Burial next to her husband Tom will follow in St. John Cemetery. A period of calling hours will be held from 9:00 am to 10:00 am Saturday prior to leaving for church.