Rose C. Casson

Rose Marie Cacciapaglia Casson, 90, passed away on Saturday, November 09, 2024, at her residence in Staunton.

She was born on December 28, 1933 in Staunton, to the late Oronzo and Camilia Terlizzi Cacciapaglia.

Alongside her beloved late husband, Harry Herbert Casson, she owned and operated Joe’s Restaurant in Staunton, a treasured local institution for many years that was renowned for serving some of the best spaghetti in town. For years, Rose was a fixture in that restaurant, creating a warm, welcoming space for regulars and newcomers alike. 

Beyond her dedication to Joe’s, she was an avid bowler, bringing the same passion to the lanes as she did to her cooking. Rose was known for her culinary skills, sharing countless delicious meals with family and friends over the years. Above all, her greatest joy was spending time with her family, creating lasting memories that will be treasured for generations.

She was a life-long devoted and active member of Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Staunton.

She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia “Cindy” Marie Casson Gainer and her husband, Larry; her sons, Stephen Anthony Casson and his wife, Wanda, and Thomas Michael Casson and his wife, Lisa; her sisters, Josephine Ann Cacciapaglia King, and Louise Camilla Cacciapaglia Bowers and husband Raymond; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, she is preceded in death by her brothers, James “Jim” Erasmus Cacciapaglia, John Thomas Cacciapaglia, and Donato “Don” Aloysius Cacciapaglia.

A memorial mass will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, November 22, 2024, at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church with the Reverend Matthias Lusembo officiating. 

Inurnment will follow at Oak Lawn Mausoleum and Memory Gardens in Staunton.

The family will receive friends following the graveside service in Saint Francis' Assisi Hall where refreshments will be served.