Josephine Mary (Caroleo) Callaro
March 13, 1947 – February 22, 2026
Josephine Mary (Caroleo) Callaro, 78, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, February 22, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on March 13, 1947, Josephine was the beloved daughter of Dominick Caroleo and Gaetana (Viola) Laezza. She was a devoted sister to James Caroleo, Anthony Caroleo, and her twin sister, Theresa Pastorelli, with whom she shared a bond closer than any other. Their lifelong connection was a source of strength, laughter, and joy.
Josephine was a fiercely loving and loyal mother to her sons: Peter Callaro and his wife Kellie; Joseph Callaro and his wife Jennifer; and Kyle Callaro and his former partner Jennifer McKinnley. She was a proud and adoring grandmother to Leeanna, Zoe, Camryn, Ella, Isabelle, Dominic, Colleen, and Sarah, each of whom brought her immeasurable happiness. And she was adored by her many nieces and nephews: Dina, Tracey, Danielle, Dawn, Jennifer, James and their children.
She will be remembered most for her unwavering devotion to family and friends, her extraordinary cooking—especially the meals and traditions she lovingly prepared during the holidays—and her deep passion for music. 1950s doo-wop was her favorite, and she possessed a beautiful singing voice that she shared often at home and while performing alongside her talented father, sister and brothers. Music was not just something she enjoyed; it was something she lived. Josephine also had a deep love for James Cagney, especially his film Yankee Doodle Dandy which she watched every July 4th.
Josephine was loved deeply by everyone who knew her. Her warmth, strength, humor, and loyalty leave a legacy that will continue through her family and all whose lives she touched. She will be profoundly missed.
A memorial service will be held at Darby Funeral Home in Canton, Georgia, on Friday, February 27th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Darby Funeral will also host a funeral service on Saturday, February 28th from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Interment will be held at Green Lawn Cemetery located in Roswell, Georgia. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.