Josephine (Brigante) Borselle

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Josephine (Brigante) Borselle who departed this life on May 10, 2025, one day before her 102nd birthday. A cherished soul, Josie touched the lives of all who knew her with kindness, wisdom, a great sense of humor and an unwavering spirit. 

Born on May 11,1923 at home by a midwife, Josie was a daughter of the late Paul and Grace Brigante. She attended New Britain High School and in 1946, Josephine married the love of her life, the late Joseph Borselle, and they were New Britain residents for most of their lives. They later moved to Kensington where they found a supportive family, friends and church community. They were communicants of St Paul’s church.  Josephine and Joe also loved relaxing and entertaining family and friends at their vacation home at Giants Neck Beach in Niantic, Ct.  

Above all, Josephine treasured her family and friendships. She is survived by her two daughters Elaine Borselle of Berlin, Ct and her companion Tom Zack, and Grace Surdyka of Westerly, RI and her companion Ron Lawrence. She is also survived by her loving grandchildren Jill Surdyka-Kim (Ben) and Andrew Surdyka (Kati), 3 great grandchildren Grady, Reagan and Maxwell), brother Michael Brigante, sister Sophie Conti, sister-in-law Jackie Timko, many loving nieces and nephews and her two special friends Marie and Roz. Josie was predeceased by her husband Joe and brother Joseph Briganti. 

Josephine took joy in always sharing laughter and love with those fortunate enough to be nearby. When she moved to Brookdale Chatfield Assisted Living in West Hartford, she was frequently an enthusiastic participant in all the activities and became a gifted artist. One of her greatest joys was sharing her paintings with family and friends who cherish owning a part of her legacy.  Josie’s memory will live in the hearts of family and countless friends who mourn her loss. The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff on 4South at Hebrew Home of Health and Rehabilitation in West Hartford for their kindness and compassionate care. Also, a very special thank you to Lovetta and Ellie for their sincere devotion to Josie during her residence at Hebrew Care.

Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours at Berlin Memorial Funeral Home, 96 Main St., Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. in St Paul’s Church. Interment will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, New Britain. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of Josephine may be made to St. Paul’s Church, 485 Alling St., Kensington, CT. 06037 www.BerlinMemorialFuneralHome.com

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