Dr. Josephine Theresa Mancuso Age 89, joined the Lord on September 14, 2018. She was born on November 21, 1928 in Joliet, IL. After graduation from Joliet Township High School in 1946, she attended Joliet Junior College then went on to receive her Bachelor’s degree in Education from Illinois State University in Normal, IL.
She later received a Master’s degree from The University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, CO and a Doctorate degree in Secondary Education from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. During her career, Dr. Mancuso taught Physical Education at elementary and secondary schools as well as at the University of Illinois where she was recognized as “Outstanding Teacher”. As Administrator, she served as Director of Student Teaching in Physical Education for the University of Illinois; Director of Physical Education and Health in addition to Director of Personnel and Assistant Superintendent at Lyons Township High School in LaGrange, IL.
She earned the Administrator of the Year Award by the local chapter of the Illinois Education Association. Dr. Mancuso served as President of the Illinois Association for Health, Physical Education and Recreation, President of the National Association of Sports and Physical Education and was inducted into the Hall of Fame for the Illinois Coaches Association for Girls’ and Women’s Sports. She earned the Pathfinder Award for the National Association for Girls’ and Women’s Sports.
She is survived by her sister Rose E. Mancuso of Joliet, IL and her brother Dominic Mancuso of Burr Ridge, IL; and numerous nieces, nephews, and God-children. Preceding her in death are her brothers Ralph, Joseph, and Samuel Mancuso and sisters Catherine Mancuso, Frances Pettinato, and Marie Hayes; and parents Santo and Francesca Mancuso. A Mass of Christian Burial is being celebrated at The Church of St. Anthony today, Tuesday, September 18th at 10 a.m. Immediately following a private family graveside service will be held at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery & Mausoleums 1400 S. Wolf Road – Hillside, IL 60162 (Our Lady of Perpetual Help Alcove).
The family of Josephine Mancuso wishes to express our sincere thanks for all expressions of love during this time of bereavement. The family would like to thank those in assisted living who provided comfort and care; the staff of Joliet Area Community Hospice, the staff of Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home, St. Patrick’s Residence and Pila Kane. In lieu of flowers a donation to Joliet Area Community Hospice, 150 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60431, St. Patrick’s Residence 1400 Brookdale Road, Naperville, IL 60563 or Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home, 1201 Wyoming Ave, Joliet, IL 60435 is appreciated.
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