Josephine R. (Cesere) Shaw, 86, of Haverhill, MA passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Brighton, MA on January 29, 2016 at 3:33AM.

She was born in Kenville, NJ on May 28, 1929 to Italian parents John and Julia (DiRenzo) Cesere. She was a frequent volunteer at Holy Rosary, Central Catholic and St. Mary High School. She spent many years caring for the elderly in their homes. She enjoyed rooting for all the local sports teams especially her beloved Boston Celtics. Over the years, she donated regularly to St. Jude Hospital among many other charities. Her favorite things to do were cooking for her family, spending time with her grandchildren, and occasionally smacking her son in the back of the head (like any good Italian Mom would).

Josephine is survived by her son Robert B., his wife Kimberly, her Granddaughters Alyssa, Brittany, and Courtney, as well as, her stepsons William and Noel. She is also survived by her Goddaughters Karen Antonelli-White, Joan Antonelli, and Judyann (Chaippe) Watson. She will join her late husband William F. Shaw, late brother Anthony, late sisters Mary and Antoinette. Josephine will be missed by her many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Calling hours will be on Thursday, February 4th from 5 to 7 pm at the Charles F. Dewhirst Funeral Home, 80 Broadway, Methuen, with a service to follow at 7 pm in the funeral home chapel. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.dewhirstfuneral.com or facebook.com/DewhirstFuneralHome.

 Service Information