Josephine "Jo" C. De Salvo

Josephine Camilla DeSalvo (nee Degaro), born June 28, 1923, passed away on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 in Cincinnati, Ohio. Her age was 97 years at the time of death. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas DeSalvo, and son, Steven DeSalvo. She is survived by 2 sons, Thomas J DeSalvo and James C DeSalvo, 2 grandchildren, Tommy James DeSalvo and Jayd Rowan DeSalvo, and 1 great-grandchild, Gavin. Brief Bio of Josephine DeSalvo Josephine was a loving wife and mother, devout woman of faith, professional artist and painter, excellent musician, pianist and organist, and an exceptional cook and homemaker! Josephine's life was involved with 4 areas: Faith, Family, Music, and Art. Josephine's parents, Joseph and Lena DeGaro of Cincinnati Ohio, insured that she had a good education in music and the arts. After graduating from Regina High School, Josephine continued her art studies at the University of Cincinnati, graduating with a degree in Art. Following university education, Josephine secured a position as an artist and illustrator for Gibson Greeting Cards, a position that she held until she married Thomas DeSalvo and assumed the role of a mother and housewife, raising a family and keeping a home. She was a very loving mother and wife, spending much time with her family and children. Every Sunday evening became a fun family event with many relatives, a big dinner, and card games that hosted adults and kids alike. As a result, all of the children still enjoy playing card games to this day... but only after a huge dinner! Her interests outside of her home centered on her Catholic faith, and she was a longtime member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. This devout association eventually led to her accepting a position as organist, pianist, and music director for the rapidly expanding church. It became clear that the growing church would need a larger music ministry, so several other excellent musicians were added to the roster, and Josephine resumed her organist duties, a position that she held for 50 years! To celebrate her long tenure as church organist and musician, the Saint Cecilia choir room in the church was dedicated to her. Josephine was also a music instructor and piano teacher, and her guidance helped many of our local kids become good musicians and pianists. She also showed an amazing ability to perform many different artistic skills at a professional level. How many people do you know who are a successful commercial artist as well as an acclaimed organist and musician? Jo DeSalvo was certainly an awesome example for everyone who knew her. This intellectual ability carried over into her leisure time. Her hobbies involved solving crossword puzzles, word puzzles, and playing Scrabble and card games, along with deciphering "Wheel of Fortune" puzzles. Jo DeSalvo was a truly bright light in our community. Her warm humor and smile will be sincerely missed by all who knew her. Services and burial was on January 20, 2021, at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Cincinnati, Ohio. Masses may be arranged by contacting the church office at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church 7820 Beechmont Ave. Cincinnati OH 45255 513.388.4466 www.ihom.org A memorial service for Josephine DeSalvo is planned for the summer of 2021. Information can be obtained by contacting the church office at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, Cincinnati, Ohio.