Josephine T. (Cardarelli) Sorrentino

Josephine Sorrentino

1938 - 2025
 

Josephine Sorrentino (nee Cardarelli), age 86, of Drexel Hill died peacefully April 9, 2025. She is survived by her children Sandy (Dennis) Pfizenmayer, Gabrielle (Rob) Nolek and Anthony P. (Jennifer) Sorrentino. Grandchildren Meghan and John Pfizenmayer, Allison (Henry) Crossman, Owen Nolek, Sofia, Catherine, and Ana Sorrentino. Siblings Peter and Raymond Cardarelli. She was also survived by many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Anthony P. Sorrentino, and parents, the late Peter and Rose (nee Rufo) Cardarelli, siblings Dan, Anthony, and Rosalie.

Born and raised in the Overbrook section of West Philadelphia, Josephine was a proud Italian American whose life was centered around faith, family, and public service. She was a graduate of Saint Donato’s Grammar School and West Catholic High School for Girls, where she first nurtured her lifelong commitment to learning and community.

While she had a brief career with Bell Telephone and later as an assistant in a Philadelphia dental practice, it was passion for education and dedication to her Township which led her to public service. She was a fixture in the Upper Darby Townships’ government, having been elected four times to the Upper Darby School Board. Serving as a community volunteer, she tirelessly advocated for the township’s public-school students, eventually rising to the role of Vice President. Josie served as a Drexel Hill Committee Woman, and for decades managed the polling places on primary and general election days. Her leadership left a lasting impact on the community she so deeply loved. 

Josie was a talented seamstress, craft artist and cook whose creativity ranged from making elegant dresses, flower and wreath displays and coveted homemade Italian cookies. She especially enjoyed baking for the holidays and many family weddings.

At the heart of her life was an unwavering dedication to her family. In addition to being a beloved wife, loving mother and grandmother, her devotion extended to her many beloved nieces and nephews, who will remember her always for her constant support, wise counsel, and heartfelt advice.

Josephine was known among family and friends as the consummate host, maintaining the treasured tradition of an annual Christmas party that grew over the years to include one hundred guests. She had a deep love for gatherings of all kinds, whether formal celebrations like weddings or the warmth of a simple Sunday dinner. Her home was always a place of joy, laughter, and welcome.

She will be remembered for her grace, generosity, and the strong connections she built throughout her life.

       Relatives and friends are invited to her viewings Tuesday (April 15th, 2025) evening 6-9pm and Wednesday (April 16th, 2025) morning 10:30-11:45 am at the Ruffenach Funeral Home, 4900 Township Line Road, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania 19026. Her Funeral Mass will be 12 Noon Wednesday April 16th, 2025, at St. Dorothy Church, 4910 Township Line Road, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania 19026. Interment Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Saint Dorothy’s Church, (4910 Township Line Road, Drexel Hill, PA).

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Josephine T. (Cardarelli) Sorrentino, please visit our floral store.