Janette M. Tognarelli, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, family member and friend, passed away peacefully on August 2nd, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 78 years old and a lifelong resident of Medford.

Janette first got a job in Boston as a legal secretary but after marriage, happily transitioned to a homemaker extraordinaire, the heart of her family, and the love in every gathering. She could cook, bake, or make anything you could imagine, and
somehow made it all look easy. Her creativity, warmth, and smile turned everyday moments into cherished memories.

Every holiday was so special that others would marvel at her creations or ask, “How did Mama do it?” Whether it was Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, or someone’s birthday (her cakes and themes were truly legendary), Janette poured her heart into every celebration. She created magic in all the little things and leaves behind a legacy of love, care, and traditions that her family will carry on for generations.

Some of her most treasured memories were made during summers “down the Cape” at Pa’s beach house on Elliot Drive. From long fun filled days at West Dennis Beach playing in the sand and water, to family cookouts by the picnic table, Janette helped make the Cape a special place. Summers full of laughter, tradition, and connection began when she was a child and carried on through this summer, each one a loving reflection of the warmth and love she so effortlessly created and shared.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Vincent (Tuggy) Tognarelli Jr., with whom she was approaching her 57th year of marriage early next month, and her loving children: Dean Tognarelli and his wife Lisa, Kirk Tognarelli, and Brigette Borkowski and her husband John. She was the proud and deeply loved grandmother of Tyla, Hunter, Farrah, Lucius, Mason, and Stella, each of whom brought her immense joy. She is also survived by her cherished brother, Vincent Filosi, as well as her extended family and dear friends whom she considered family.

Janette was predeceased by her wonderful parents, Arnold Filosi (Pa) and Janette Filosi (Mom), who guided her with love, wisdom, and kindness throughout her life. Their love and influence shaped Janette into the remarkable woman, wife, mommy, and mama she was.

Though our hearts are heavy, we are grateful for the time we had with Janette, who taught us what it means to love deeply, give generously, and make everyday actions special and fun for loved ones.

Please honor Janette’s memory by creating something homemade, heartfelt, or kind for a family member or friend just as she did, every single day.

She was, and forever will be, the best mother in the world.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to visit with the family on Monday, August 11th from 4 - 8 PM at the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford, and again on Tuesday morning, August 12th at 10 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 11 AM in St. Clement Church, 71 Warner Street, Medford. Services will conclude with burial at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford.