Josephine Hooper 1923-2020

Josephine will always be remembered and loved for her generosity, caring nature and smile.

She was born Jan. 10, 1923, in Youngstown, the daughter of Claude and Mary Polifrone Santangelo, and was a lifelong area resident.

Josephine was a 1942 graduate of East High School, where she was a majorette in the marching band.

Through high school, Jo worked at S. H. Kress and Co., a popular downtown five-and-dime store, followed by her employment for over 45 years at Strouss Co. in downtown Youngstown as a cosmetic counter manager. At one time she was the supervisor of the cosmetics department, and she was proud to say that the owners, customers and co-workers were her second family. Jo was also a proud homemaker and loved children. She could always be counted on to babysit for her family and the neighborhood children.

Jo was an active member of St. Charles Borromeo Church, where she volunteered as a greeter and worked its annual festival, along with the annual appreciation dinner. She enjoyed helping others, so she did additional volunteer work with the American Red Cross and American Heart Association, along with other charities, to try and make this a better place we live in.

Josephine leaves behind to hold onto her memories, her son, Dennis Hooper, with whom she made her home; a sister, Mary Santangelo; and a brother, Joseph (Freda) Santangelo, both of Boardman; along with many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Josephine was preceded in death by her parents, and three brothers, Perry, Dominic and Vincent “Jimmy” Santangelo.

Josephine’s family wishes to express appreciation to all that are offering condolences at this time, but have elected to have private services due to the outbreak of the coronavirus.

There was a Mass of Christian burial held Monday, June 1, 2020, at St. Charles Borromeo Church, Boardman, with the Rev. Gerald DeLucia as officiant. Burial took place in Calvary Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Boardman.

On behalf of Josephine’s family, they would like to express their sincere appreciation and gratitude to Southern Care Hospice for all the care and compassion shown to them and Josephine throughout this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, material contributions may be made in Josephine’s name to the donor’s favorite charity.

Family and friends may visit www.rossisantuccifh.com. to view this obituary, sign the guest book and send condolences to Josephine’s family.

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