Josephine Giambrone

She was born on June 14, 1934 to the late Salvatore and Cristenzia A “Jessie” (Piscitello) LaBarbera, both of Sicily, Italy.

She 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, Samuel Giambrone, all of Fredonia, NY, Beth Ann (Rachel) Giambrone, of Rochester, NY; 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, NY; brother-in-law, David (the late Lynn) Giambrone, of Fredonia, NY; as well as many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff of Chautauqua County Hospice, 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 Hospice and Palliative Care of Chautauqua County, 20 W. Fairmount Ave., Lakewood, NY, 14750, in Josephine “Cha” Giambrone’s memory.

A memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 11 am, at the Church of St. Anthony of Padua, 42 Orchard St., Fredonia, NY, officiated by the Reverend Joseph Walter. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Sheridan, NY.

Arrangements have been made by the FANTAUZZI FUNERAL HOME, 82 E Main St., Fredonia, NY.