Josephine “Jo” Deja was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She left this world too soon on July 6th, 2021. She is loved, missed and will be always be cherished.
She was born to Millie and Michael Castagno on October 23, 1941. She grew up in South Philadelphia and graduated from St. Maria Goretti High School. She met the love of her life, Thomas “Tom” Deja” on a blind date. The two married and had 2 children: Cindy and Tommy. Tom and Jo would have celebrated 55 years together this year. They retired together in The Villages, Fl where they made many wonderful friendships including those that Jo made serving as a member of the BYTE Ruby Razzleberries Women’s Club.
Jo adored her children and grandchildren. Every year Jo most looked forward to spending summers at the beach in Ocean City, NJ. There were many special times spent at the “shore house”. To her grandchildren she was affectionately known as “Nana” and family time, especially with the grandchildren, was always a top priority. She had a special bond with her grandchildren, and they will forever miss her presence in their lives. Family gatherings were never complete without time spent in the kitchen, creating delicious meals and special memories that we are grateful for and will always cherish.
Jo is survived by her beloved husband Tom; daughter, Cindy & husband Lee and grandchildren Ryan, Addison and Lee Jay; son, Tommy & wife Kasey and grandchildren Drew and Ty; sister, MaryAnn and brother Michael.
A funeral service is scheduled for 10:00 AM on July 21st at St. Mark the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church located at 7081 SE HWY 42, SUMMERFIELD, FLORIDA 34491 phone# (352) 347 9317. In lieu of flowers please, donate to the Ted & Diane Brandley House Hospice of Marion County located at 17395 SE 109th Terrace Road Summerfield, FL 34491 on her behalf.
