Obituary of Catherine Branciforte

Catherine "Katie" Branciforte Devoted daughter & sister, beloved wife, cherished mother, grandmother & great-grandmother, dearest aunt & friend On Thursday, May 22, 2014, while at her home surrounded by loved ones, Catherine "Katie" Branciforte peacefully joined her family in heaven. Born in New York City on July 8, 1917 she lived there happily until 1956, when she relocated with her family and beloved parents to Hazlet, N.J.. After the passing of her loving husband of 64 years, Dominick, she settled in Basking Ridge in 2006. Catherine was the oldest daughter of Salvatore & Filippa Russo and caring sister to Rosie, Sadie, Nina and Lizzie. While it is impossible to sum up the life of such an incredible woman, if one was to define Katie's life by a single word, it would be this: family. Her devotion and caring for her family shined in every aspect of her life. She stopped her education after the tenth grade to help provide for them. She worked in the garment industry for many years and, due to her great work ethic and sharp mind, was promoted to the bookkeeper. An extraordinary cook till the end, Katie had the knack for making the most delicious meal out of the simplest things while bringing people together in the process. She was a talented seamstress who created clothes, curtains, decorations, costumes, or pretty much whatever family or friends needed. Despite her many skills, her true talent laid in the unending wisdom and perceptiveness she displayed throughout all of her 96 years. A source of advice, empathy, and helpfulness for all, her selflessness was ever apparent to all those around her. Katie made everyone feel welcome and special, which led to numerous visits around her kitchen table. Always smiling, Katie saw good in everyone. Till the end, those who knew her could never believe her age due to her great mind, independence, and energy. She will be greatly missed by all. She was predeceased by her husband, sisters and her first grandson, Salvatore Branciforte. She is survived by her children, Vincent of Wood-Ridge, Salvatore and his wife Linda of Fairless Hills, Pa., and her daughter, Frances Capozzi and her husband Rich of Toms River; six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. at St. James in Basking Ridge on Weds. May 28, 2014. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Gallaway & Crane Funeral Home in Basking Ridge. She will be buried alongside her husband and close to her parents at Saint Joseph's Cemetery in Hazlet. To light an online condolence candle please visit our website at www.gcfuneralhome.com.