Josephine Elizabeth "Josie" Vicaro Fontana

Josephine Elizabeth "Josie" Vicaro Fontana, of Hammond, Louisiana, passed away on Monday, September 22, 2025, at the age of 87. She was surrounded by her loving family as she was welcomed to her heavenly home into the open arms of her Savior. Josie's steadfast faith was a cornerstone of her life. She prayed every day, nurturing her relationship with the Lord, which inspired those around her.

Josie was born on January 31, 1938, in New Orleans, Louisiana, the daughter of the late Frank Vicaro and Josephine Latino Vicaro. Known fondly as "Maw Maw" or "Grey," Josie was a beacon of warmth for her family and friends. Josie was blessed with a loving husband for 43 years and four wonderful daughters. Through the years, after her daughters were grown and started their own lives, Josie welcomed a special joy into her life-her baby boy, Frank. As a proud matriarch, she took immense joy in raising her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, showering them with a love that was boundless. Each of them affectionately called her Maw Maw Josie. Her legacy is being the rock of the family as a loving wife, dedicated mother, cherished grandmother and great-grandmother, and beloved sister.

For over forty years, her gentle spirit accompanied her as she served as a waitress, most notably at Al's Steakhouse in Hammond, where she became a beloved figure among the patrons. Her nurturing heart naturally led her to work at Happy Feet Daycare for over a decade. There, she was affectionately called Maw Maw by all the little ones, bringing smiles and laughter to their days. She had a special gift for rocking newborns and showering each child with love, ensuring they felt valued and cherished.

Josie’s culinary talents were legendary, with her cornbread dressing being a staple family favorite. Sundays were always special as she delighted in preparing spaghetti for the entire family, gathering them around the table to share not just food, but love and laughter. She also took great pride in teaching her daughters how to cook. Her zest for life was further reflected in her love for dancing, she especially loved to jitterbug. Josie found joy in the little things-like visiting the casino, where she relished playing her favorite slot machine “The Buffalo Machine.”

As we bid farewell to this remarkable woman, we celebrate the love she sowed in her family, the joy she brought to her friends, and the cherished memories that will forever linger in our hearts. Josie will always be remembered for her strength, her nurturing spirit, and the undeniable love that she shared with all of us. She may have left this earthly realm, but her legacy will undoubtedly live on, weaving its way through the stories, meals, and dances that will forever remind us of our beloved Maw Maw Josie.

Josie is survived by her children, Mary Simmons (John), Pat Fontana (Bobby), Sharon Maxwell (Morris), Debbie Fontana (Lindsey), and Frank Fontana (Stephanie); grandchildren, Tiffany Smith, Jennifer Hayden, Jessica Meyers, Jacob Fontana (Hannah), Alaina Fontana, Ava Fontana, and Abelena Fontana; great grandchildren, Emma Meyers, Austin Hayden, Gracee Hayden, Paisley Hayden, Mary Catherine Smith, Taylor Smith, Blake Smith, and Magnolia Fontana; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Josie was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Joseph Fontana Sr.; and siblings, Evelyn Latino, Angelina Maurer, Tom Vicaro, Frances Cali, Johnny Vicaro, Mary Gerave, Rose Lamonica, Johanna Lay, and Joseph "Baby Joe" Vicaro.

The family would like to thank everyone that helped care for Josie, including her sitters, Lindsey, Kim, Tammy, and Lin, as well as Lindy, Lea, and Dorothy of Modern Hospice.

Family and friends will be received at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, 2000 N. Morrison Blvd, Hammond, Louisiana 70401 on Sunday, September 28, 2025 from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm, with a Funeral Service at 1:00 pm.

Interment will follow at Colonial Cemetery in Independence, Louisiana.

Pallbearers will be Morris Maxwell, Jacob Fontana, Austin Hayden, Levi Hayden, Kris Smith, and Mark Meyers.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home and Crematory of Hammond and Ponchatoula. An on-line guest book is available at www.harrymckneely.com.