In Memory of Josephine R. Burns

Obituary

Josephine R. Burns, 96, of Utica, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026, in the very home where she was born, surrounded by her loving children.

Josephine was born in Utica on January 26, 1930, a daughter of the late Caterina (Papa) and Fredrico Rosato. She was educated in local schools. On July 25, 1953, she married James A. Burns in Utica. Together, they built a life rooted in love and devotion until his passing on November 22, 1996. In her younger years, Josephine worked at General Electric and later brought her warm personality to Seneca Boot. Josephine was affectionately known as "Jo" or "Aunt Jo" to many.

Family and faith were the cornerstones of Josephine’s 96 years. A devout Catholic, she was a lifelong parishioner of St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church. She lived her faith through active service as a member of the St. Theresa’s Society, volunteering her time for church feasts, where she could always be found cooking fried dough.

If love could be measured in meals, Josephine’s love was limitless. Food was her true love language, and family gatherings were the heart of her world. From daily lunches and weekly dinners to regular Sunday family gatherings and holiday meals, she was happiest when her table was full. Every niece, nephew, relative, neighbor, and family friend knew they had a place at her table. She welcomed everyone like they were her own, and nobody ever left her house unloved or hungry.

Josephine possessed a remarkable memory for the favorite dishes of those she cared about; once she knew a food you liked, you could be certain she would have it waiting for you. She never arrived at a loved one's door without a thoughtful treat or dish. She also had a legendary sweet tooth, always keeping a bowl of chocolates ready to share and never turning down a good dessert.

Josephine could often be found passionately rooting for the New York Yankees. She was a die-hard fan who loved nothing more than watching the games and cheering them on every single season.

Josephine’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her ultimate pride and joy. She poured her energy into their lives, celebrating their every milestone. She also deeply cherished the bond she shared with her sisters, Angie and Anna.

She is survived by her devoted children: Susan Sharon, Jean LaPlante (Jackie Kelly), and Bob Burns (Kevin Murphy); her cherished grandchildren: Frank (Callie) Sharon, Dan (Tiffany) Sharon, Matthew LaPlante, and Kat Inocente; and great-grandchildren: Frank, Carly, Jacob, and Kayden Sharon; River and Bowie LaPlante; and Preston, Greenley Jay, Kaleiope, and Abraham Reece. She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews, and her dedicated caregivers, Yvette and Zahneya, for whose exceptional care the family is deeply grateful.

Josephine was reunited in heaven with her parents; her beloved husband, James; her son, James Burns, Jr.; her son-in-law, Frank Sharon; her sisters, Angie Pugliese and Anna Orsino; and her brothers, Dominick and Robert Rosato.

Your strength, your empathy, and your kindness will live on in all of us. You gave us the world, and we will honor you by taking care of others just like you always took care of us.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church, Utica. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery. In accordance with Josephine's wishes, there will be no calling hours.

 Arrangements are under the direction of Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, New Hartford. Online messages of sympathy may be left at www.fwefh.com.