Verna Dellinger Gioseffi

Verna Gioseffi, 98 passed peacefully on August 15. Born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on May 31st, 1926. Verna’s parents moved to Fort Lauderdale in 1925 from Cherryville, North Carolina. Verna was born at home in a little house in downtown Fort Lauderdale where The Broward Center of Performing Arts stands today. When Verna was an infant the family house was destroyed in the hurricane of 1926. She was the first baby girl baptized in the newly formed Trinity Lutheran Church by Pastor Dallas Gibson. A lifelong resident of Fort Lauderdale Verna resided in her current home for over 74 years. 

Verna graduated from Fort Lauderdale High School in 1944 and was a Volunteer Observer during WWII on the 9th floor rooftop of Fort Lauderdale’s first skyscraper, The Sweet Building on Las Olas Blvd and Andrews Avenue, as a lookout to watch for enemy aircraft and submarines. She also volunteered at the USO dancing with the troops.

Verna met the love of her life, Maurice (Mike) Gioseffi, who moved to Fort Lauderdale after WWII from Rye, New York. Verna attributed their improbable union as proof there is a God. 

Among her many talents, Verna was most devoted to her family, sewing and crocheting. To all that loved her, she was known as the Angel Lady for the 1000’s of angels she crocheted and gave away. She always said everyone needs a “Guardian Angel”. 

Predeceased by her husband Maurice (2017) and son Daniel (1990), she is survived by sons Ronald, Maurice, John (Robyn), daughter Josephine (James) and 5 beautiful granddaughters (by age) Anna, Lexi, Julie, Ruby and Amy. Although not physically present, she will continue to be with us through the memories, stories and good example she set for us. 

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, August 20 at Evergreen Cemetery in Fort Lauderdale. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to send flowers to someone you love or make a donation to a charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to Edwards Cremation & Funeral Services Wilton Manors. Online condolences can be shared at edkalis.com