A woman of great faith

Rosaria “Rosalie” Iola Esposito of Holland died Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at Pickering Manor Home in Newtown with her daughter and extended family by her side.

She was 111 years old.

Born in Ansonia, CT, she was the daughter of the late Domenica and Antonio Messina who were immigrants from Sicily.

Rosalie and her family eventually moved to the New Haven area during her teenage years.

 Rosalie was the beloved wife of 46 years to the late Joseph P. Esposito whom she married in 1933.

Rosalie spent many years employed as a tailor in a few of the finest men’s stores near Yale University in New Haven, CT., which included Fein and Feinstein and Ensons.  Her family came first and foremost; she was a former Brownie and Girl Scout Leader. Rosalie loved to attend operas and Broadway Shows. Singing and dancing were hobbies of hers, but sewing was her passion.

Rosalie and family moved to East Haven, Ct., where she and her   husband Joe became active members of St. Vincent de Paul’s Catholic Church where Rosalie became a Columbiette and member of the Women’s Guild.

“Rosie” as she was affectionately known to family and friends, often stated that, most important in her life were “Faith, Family and Friends” as well as to practice everything in Moderation. With always a positive, happy disposition.  Rosie loved helping others and maintained being a selfless person throughout her life. She accepted at all times whatever situation came along. She will be remembered for the inspiration she gave to all those that came to know and love her for her strength of character.

Rosie moved to Holland when she was 100years old to live with her daughter Dolores. She loved attending Mass at St. Bede the Venerable Church and was in their Bible Study Group for a few years.

Rosie is survived by her 2 children; Dolores M. Uphoff and Paul J. Esposito.  She is also survived by her 2 grandchildren, Carla Shaffer and Matthew Esposito and his wife Sarah and her 2 great grandchildren, Giana and Jonathan. Rosie was predeceased by her son-in-law Richard Uphoff and her daughter-in-law Amelia Esposito, 3 sisters: Wilhelmina Monde, Grace Vegliante, Anna Messina, 2 brothers Anthony and Joseph Messina. She is also survived by several nieces’ nephews and many friends.

Rosie’s family would like to thank her Doctors, the Administrators, Nurses Aides and staff at Pickering Manor in both Personal Care and Nursing-Rehab. As well as Kindred Hospice and Guardian Angels for the wonderful care that was given to Rosie.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her viewing Monday May 7, from 10:00am until her Funeral Mass 11:00am at St. Bede the Venerable Church 1071 Holland Rd. Holland. Interment will be held at a later date in North Haven, CT.

In lieu of flowers contributions in her memory may be made to St. Bede the Venerable Church at the above address or to Pickering Manor Home, 226 N. Lincoln Ave. Newtown, PA 18940.