Joanne Violante of Malden, formerly of Somerville, passed away surrounded by loved ones on Friday, April 28th. She was 56. Born in Somerville, she was the cherished daughter of the late Joseph and Angelina (Rubino) Violante.
A natural people person, Joanne was loved by everyone. No matter how long you knew her, or where and when you met, you were instantly connected. Joanne was everyone’s best friend. Her sense of humor, caring personality, kind disposition, and ability to help anyone in need made her one of a kind. When Joanne walked into a room her presence and smile alone would light it up.
When Joanne was not making everyone smile, she was planning the next get together, party or function. Joanne was known to be the event coordinator and you could always count on her to make it special. She enjoyed gambling at Foxwoods while sipping on a strong cocktail, taking cruises with her husband Sunday and her girlfriends, blasting 1980’s and R&B music, and taking as many selfies as possible. Joanne’s biggest passion was her family and friends. She loved spending time with her husband, fur pups, aunt, cousins and friends. She will be greatly missed by all.
Joanne was the beloved wife of Sunday Okojie. She was the proud and loving fur mom of Jack and the late Buster. She was the dear sister of the late Diane and Michael, and the caring aunt of Deanna Roque. She was the niece of Dolores Castellano, and is also survived by many cousins and friends that she considered a part of her family.
Joanne’s funeral will be from the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford, on Friday, May 5th at 10 AM, followed by a funeral Mass celebrated in Saint Raphael Church, 512 High St., Medford, at 11 AM. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours Thursday, May 4th from 4 to 8 PM. Services will conclude with burial at St. Michael Cemetery, Boston.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Joanne’s name to the M.S.P.C.A - Angell Memorial Animal Hospital, 350 South Huntington Ave., Boston, MA 02130, or to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023.