Josephine Giambrone, 91, died on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at her home in Fredonia, surrounded by the love of her children. She was born on June 14, 1934 to the late Salvatore and Cristenzia A. "Jessie" (Piscitello) LaBarbera, both of Sicily, Italy.
Josephine graduated from the old Fredonia High School in 1952 and began her career as a secretary for the Gervase Canning Company. In 1956, she wed the late George Giambrone, a Korean Conflict veteran, and they two devoted 70 years to the church and to family. "Cha" was the heart of her home; renowned for her family Sunday dinners and bakery delights. In later years, she enjoyed trips to the casino and bingo, and cheered for her favorite football and baseball teams -- obviously the Buffalo Bills and the New York Yankees! Even after retiring, "Cha" enjoyed many years helping countless students at the State University of New York at Fredonia campus through the Faculty Student Association.
In addition to her husband and parents, "Cha" was predeceased by her seven siblings: Vito, John, and Sam LaBarbera, Angeline Parinella, Concetta Raths, Sr. Gertrude LaBarbera, and Santa (Babe) Salisbury. She is survived by her children, Gregory (Kathleen) Giambrone, Jo Ann (Elizabeth) Giambrone and Samuel Giambrone, all of Fredonia, and Beth Ann (Rachel) Giambrone of Rochester; her grandchildren, Annelise and Nathan; her sister, Laura (the late Anthony) Gambino of Clairton, PA; sister-in-law, Elaine (the late Robert) Valvo of Batavia; brother-in-law, David (the late Lynn) Giambrone of Fredonia; as well as many nieces and nephews.
A memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, March 21 at 11:00 AM at the Church of St. Anthony of Padua, 42 Orchard Street in Fredonia, officiated by the Reverend Joseph Walter. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Sheridan.
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff of Chautauqua Hospice & Palliative Care, especially Jackie, Carol, Heather and ShyAnne, as well as the VNA nurses, Angela and Christina, for the compassionate care given to "Cha." All donations may be directed to Chautauqua Hospice & Palliative Care, 20 West Fairmount Avenue, Lakewood, NY 14750 in Josephine "Cha" Giambrone's memory.
Arrangements have been made by the Fantauzzi Funeral Home, 82 East Main Street in Fredonia.
Obituary from the Observer
