Josephine N. Privitera, formerly of 97 Main Street, Lee, died peacefully, on Tuesday, June 10, 2014 in Naples Florida at the age of 104. Born in Guardia, Sicily on December 25, 1909, Josephine was a resident of Lee for over 80 years. Josephine was the daughter of Salvatore and Maria Grasso Cavallaro. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 59 years, Stephen Privitera, as well as three brothers, John, Michael, Mario, a sister Carmelina Petrocitto, and son-in-law Richard Royal. Mrs. Privitera came to America in 1930 as the bride of Stephen. They resided in New York City before opening Steve's Barber Shop on Main Street in Lee in 1932. The barber shop is currently operated by Josephine's son, Mario. As a mother of four during the Great Depression, Mrs. Privitera canned vegetables from her husband's garden as well as prepared delicious wild mushrooms that Stephen enjoyed picking. Josephine could always be found in her kitchen often making her tasty sauce and meatballs. Needless to say wonderful aromas always emanated from her kitchen. Josephine was an expert seamstress as well, making clothes for her children by cutting old newspapers for patterns. She was a lifetime member of the G. Marconi Lodge of the Sons of Italy. She was a devoted wife and mother who always put her family first. Noni will be sadly missed by her large and extended family which includes her daughter Antoinette Royal of Naples, FL., her son Mario (Carol) of Lenox, her son Salvatore (Doris) of Lincoln, MA and her daughter Mary DiNunzio (Charles) of Lee. She leaves 12 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren and 4 great, great grandchildren. A service celebrating the life of Josephine Privitera will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2014 with a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM at St. Mary's Church, Lee, MA. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make memorial donations to the Lee Library or to a charity of the donor's choice in care of Kelly Funeral Home, 3 Main Street, Lee, MA 01238.

Service Details

Saturday, June 28th, 2014 11:00am, St. Mary's Church

Interment Details

St. Mary's Cemetery