Hennessy, Josephine R.

ALBANY - On October 10, 2013, Josephine Rosette Hennessy (Cardamone) born November 4, 1922, passed away from life’s struggles into eternal peace. She is survived by her daughter Paula T. Hennessy and dearest grandson Evan Hennessy Yunck, of Albany; as well as daughter Joanne Hennessy Thompson and husband John J. Thompson of Southport, North Carolina. She is also survived by her sister Jean Balthazard (Joseph) of Tarrytown, NY, and brother Richard Rosette (Joan) of Albany. Jo had many devoted nieces and nephews including Susan Corrigan (Bill), Mark Balthazard ( Eileen ), Steve Rosette (Edna), Richard Rosette, Jackie (Christopher) as well as other nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews -out of touch but not forgotten.. She is predeceased by her beloved husband of 37 years Paul A. Hennessy, mother Jennie Farinacci and father Leandro Rosette, brother Lee Rosette and his wife Mary, and sisters Catherine and Mary.

She also leaves behind her darling companion of 16 years, Rosario (Ray) Cardamone, and family: Joseph and Ann Marie Cardamone, and step grandchildren Matthew (Erica),and Michael (Jackie) Joseph and Julia.

Many wonderful friends shared Jo’s life-playing cards, traveling, laughing and crying together. Jo had a sharp wit and intelligence. She showed kindness and generosity to those in need and was an unrivaled story teller and advice giver- a “force to be reckoned with”. Jo was always politically astute. She worked in the NY Legislature for more than 30 years during the terms of six governors and was a tireless campaigner. She proudly served and was active in: The Parish of Mater Christi in Albany, as Eucharistic Minister and founder of Mater Christi Seniors; past president of Democratic Women of the Legislature and vice president of Albany County Democratic Women; local AARP president- Asst. State Director and delegate to two national conventions; Columbiettes #173; Italian American CC; Italian American Heritage Society; Catholic Women’s Service League.;B.P.O.E.; Pat Aiezza Legion Post; Albany Girl’s Club, board member; Red Hats and many volunteer organizations.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, October 14, 2013 at 9:30 am in The Parish of Mater Christ, 40 Hopewell St. Albany. Relatives and friends are invited and may call at Daniel Keenan Funeral Home, 490 Delaware Ave., Albany on Sunday October 13, 2013 from 3 to 7 p.m. Interment will be in St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands.

The family wishes to thank: Dr. Carmen Guliano, Community Hospice staff especially Susan Illich-Weisser, and home health aides/angels Chrissy Hayward, Colleen Frank and Angie Lewis.

The family suggests donations to FOCUS Churches Emergency Feeding Programs, 275 State Street, Albany, NY 12210 or to the American Cancer Society http://www.cancer.org/donate