With deep love and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Josette (née Roussy), who left this world peacefully on Friday, May 16, 2025, at the age of 91.
Born on December 19, 1933, in Franz, Ontario, Josette was the beloved daughter of Pierre and Albertine Roussy. She was surrounded by close family throughout her life, including her late sisters Mary Louise (George), Julie (Hugh), Rita (Alcide), Ruby (Al) and her late brothers Lorne (Marion), Peter (Bernie), Leo (Carolyn) and Marcel and is survived by her sister-in-law Emily. She is predeceased by many brothers and sisters-in-law who she created countless memories with over the years.
She lived a life rooted in warmth, resilience and deep devotion to her family. Josette was predeceased by her loving husband, Elio Pozzo, and her beloved daughter and best friend, Cynthia Pozzo—both of whom she missed profoundly and is now reunited with.
Josette is survived by her cherished son John Pozzo (Shelley) and her adoring grandchildren: Darren Pozzo (Christina), Kerri O’Bumsawin Brule (Larry), Jasmyn Rowley (Joel) and Nylan Pozzo (Rachel). She will be greatly missed by Meredith Morrison, Ryan O’Bumsawin and Krista Zdyb. Her legacy continues through her treasured great-grandchildren: Kailey O’Bumsawin, Brooklyn O’Bumsawin (Nic), Kai Pozzo, Remington Rowley, Ryerson Rowley and Mae Rowley—each of whom brought her immeasurable pride and daily joy.
She was ‘Auntie Jo’ to many nieces and nephews she held dear, including her special niece Tina Myles, who was like a second daughter to her. She also leaves behind close friends Giselle Gardi, Janet Broadhagen, Marg Schryer and Tim Harris, whose love and companionship enriched her life deeply.
Josette was also so fond of her many friends and the devoted staff at Golden Years Retirement Home, where she found warmth, laughter and a sense of belonging in her final years.
A dedicated cashier at Loblaws for many years, Josette was a familiar, friendly face who greeted her customers with kindness and grace. But it was in her kitchen where her true magic came to life. Famous for her cherry pies, perfectly sweet date squares and hearty spaghetti sauce, Josette made sure no one ever left her home hungry—or without an extra treat “for the road”.
She knit love into every stitch of her handmade mitts and sweaters, each one a gift from her hands and heart. Her grandkids and great-grandkids will miss her endless helpings of chili (frozen with love in leftover margarine containers), her warm hugs and the unmatched comfort of simply being in her presence. She was the definition of a doting grandmother—nurturing, generous and always prepared with a full plate and an open heart.
She loved to regale her family with tales of her life in White River. She had a wealth of stories of the fun adventures she had there with people she never forgot.
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the staff at Sudbury Health Sciences North for their exemplary care—particularly the staff on 7 North and Brayden, who showed extraordinary kindness and compassion to Josette during her time there.
Josette’s legacy is one of quiet strength, fierce love and simple, everyday joys.
She fed us, loved us and wrapped us in warmth. She was, and always will be, home.
Friends and family are invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the Funeral Service in the Chapel at 2:00 p.m. Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you share a home-cooked meal with someone you love—and think of her. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be offered at www.northwoodfuneral.com