Josephine (Jo) was born in Birmingham, AL, on May 9, 1928. She passed away, peacefully, in St. Louis Park, MN on May 23, 2024. Jo was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Antionette (Nina) LaVoi and Antonio Sansone. She is survived by her dear sister, Frances Marie, aunts, uncles and cousins in NY & AL and friends in MN. Jo earned a BA in Music and an MA in Spanish Education from Marquette University. She spoke fondly of her years working in the Library of Congress and of her many years as a Spanish teacher, several in Milwaukee and 31 years in the Minnetonka Public Schools (1962-1993). Jo was a dedicated teacher who worked tirelessly to bring the love of the Spanish language and world cultures to her students. She loved to travel, whether it was to visit family, to spend weeks in Spain, Argentina or Italy, to lead students in study abroad experiences, to travel with CAC (Catholic Alum Club), or to enjoy Richard Simmons' Cruise to Lose over the years. She was one of the organizers of the local chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, and was active for years supporting women in education. Jo was a lifelong learner and mentally sharp to the end of her very full 96 years. She loved her home in Plymouth and counted her many blessings of mostly good health and being able to stay in her home. Jo was a good, kind, faith-filled and generous person, supporting many charities. Donations can be sent to her church, St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, 630 Wayzata Blvd, Wayzata, MN, 55391. The celebration of Jo's life was with family in Rochester, NY, on June 5th.

Published on June 9, 2024