Obituary of Josie Benacquista

BENACQUISTA, Arcangela “Josie” Giuseppa (nee Rocca) – Peacefully with her family by her side, Josie died at Fiddicks Nursing Home on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 at the age of 92.  Beloved wife of the late Joe (2002).  Loving mother of Mario, Sarnia.  Cherished nonna of Alexandra, Samantha, and Cara and bisnonna of Leonardo.  Dear sister of the late Crescenzo (Giuseppina) Rocca & family, Sarnia. late Tomaso (Loretta) Rocca and family, Sarnia and Emilio (Elena) Rocca & family, Italy.  Sister-in-law of Palmina (late Loreto) Pennacchia & family, Italy, late Antonio (Rosa) Benacquista and nephew Rocco (Rita) & family.  Predeceased by her parents Michele & Emilia Rocca and her sisters Matilda (Lorenzao) DiFolco and Maria (Francesco) Maola (2009).  

Josie followed her husband from Italy to Sarnia in 1955, where they started their family.   She was so proud when she got her driver’s licence, allowing her the freedom to help all her family, friends and neighbours with trips to doctors’ appointments, groceries etc. Josie was a devoted Catholic and was a proud member and past president of the St. Frances Cabrini CWL at St. Peters Church for many years. Josie was a 3-time cancer survivor and a relentless fighter.  She was happiest entertaining family and friends in her home.  Josie felt closest to God, working peacefully in her garden surrounded by her flowers and feathered friends.  She will always be remembered for her beautiful gardens but mostly for her loving and giving spirit.

Visitation will be held at the McKenzie & Blundy Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, 431 Christina St. N., Sarnia on Sunday, April 23, 2023, from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Mercy Church on Monday, April 24^th at 10:00 a.m.  Entombment to follow at Our Lady of Mercy Mausoleum. As an expression of sympathy, friends who wish may send flowers or memorial donations to the Breast Cancer Society of Canada, 415 Exmouth St. Unit 101, Sarnia, ON N7T 8A4.  Messages of condolence and memories may be left at www.mckenzieblundy.com