Gloucester - Gloucester - Josephine Teresa Billante, 85, of Gloucester, passed away on June 24th.

Born in Gloucester, she was the daughter of the late Anthony and Matilda DeFranco.

Josephine did so much in support of her family. From the time she returned to the workforce after bringing up four children she did all to help from selling donuts, worked in restaurants, the school as a lunch lady and custodian and more. All to help. She found her calling as an aid for senior citizens in private settings throughout the Northshore. She brought great happiness and help to seniors for decades. She taught us all the dignity and pleasure that could come of this. We were introduced to so much through our mother.

Her favorite time was spent being with her many friends and family in Gloucester and beyond. She was the one to keep various parts of the clan connected. Her smile and personality was a glue of love. Her kitchen always smelled beautiful and there was sauce and more anytime an area kid or gang was hungry. Many people remember the gatherings and dinners from her. Our home was open to all right up to the end. She made all welcome and loved the same way she loved her family. She had a large collection of shoes from her travels and brought by family. Her love for cooking and baking, with her many recipes, made all happy.

She is survived by three sons, Joseph Billante of Gloucester, Lorenzo and his wife, Stefani of Florida, Peter Billante and his wife, Rozlyn of California; one daughter, Gisela Billante of Gloucester; one sister, Jeanie Mosca and her husband, Skippy of Beverly; eight grandchildren, Joseph, Aurora, Matina, Zariah, Daunika, Audrey, Isabella, and Ellie; two Godchildren, Lynda Jean and Joseph Capuccio; three special friends, Sharon Orlando, Susan Danskin, and Jackie Dort; many nieces and nephews.

Her funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, July 8th at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Good Voyage, 142 Prospect St., Gloucester. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Mass. A Celebration of Life will be held in the evening on Tuesday July 8th, from 4 to 8 p.m. at St. Peter's Club Inc, 21 Main Street Gloucester. Arrangements by the Campbell Funeral Home, 61 Middle Street, Gloucester. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.