Josephine Baker

Josephine Funari Baker, 72, of Davidson St., Wampum, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family, Friday, January 19, 2018 following a courageous two and a half year battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born October 12, 1945 in New Castle, she was the daughter of the late Anthony Funari Sr. and Millie Rainey Funari of Mahoningtown. She was married for 45 years to Gary Baker who survives.

Josephine retired from the Union Area School District, where she taught High School English for many years. She was also part owner of the former Cousins Three Restaurant in New Castle. Josephine graduated from New Castle High School in 1963. She received her Bachelor Degree in Education from Slippery Rock University and her Masters from Westminster College. She was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Parish. Josephine enjoyed going to the casinos and solving crossword puzzles. Her most cherished time was spent with her family and grandchildren.

In addition to her mother, Millie and husband, Gary, survivors include three daughters, Gina Hogue of Center Twp, Melissa “Mitzi” (Ralph Sunder) Baker of Pittsburgh, Lauren (Steven Ramsey) Grinnen of Ellwood City; sister, Jean Funari of Mahoningtown; brother, Anthony (Sue) Funari Jr. of New Castle; eight grandsons and one granddaughter.

She was preceded in death by her father, Anthony Funeri Sr. and her sister, Louise Funera.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday January 23, from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at the Marshall Funeral Home, 341 Main St. Wampum. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the St. Vincent de Paul Parish on Wednesday at 1 pm. Interment will follow in St. Lucy Cemetery.

Online condolences may be sent to marshallsfh.com.