Name. Josephine Melhem, 93, of Easton, PA passed away Monday June 22, 2009 in the Easton Hospital.
Born: She was born March 4, 1916 in Providence RI, a daughter of the late John and Martha (Haddad) Merhi.
Personal: Josephine was married to the late Manor Melhem. She also was the owner and operator of the Easton Café from 1946 until the present. Josephine moved to Lebanon at the age of 4 and returned to the United States in 1936. As owner and operator of the Easton Cafe, Josephine worked virtually everyday uninterrupted for 63 years, the first 45 years with her beloved husband, Manor. "Sito" Josie's incomparable work ethic was a testament to her love and commitment to her son John and his family and desire to build a better life for them.
Memberships: Josephine was a member of Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Catholic Church in Easton and also, St. Theresa Sodality of the Church.
Survivors: Josephine is survived by a son, John Melhem, husband of Frances of Forks Twp., PA; a sister Ann Khoury of Sydney Australia; grandchildren, Barbara Brisman wife of Steven of Bedford, NY, Maynard Melhem husband of Tonilynn of Easton, PA, John A. Melhem husband of Mia of Easton, PA, Theresa Veres wife of Barney of Westfield, NJ, and Greg husband of Amanda of Easton, PA, and 12 great grandchildren. She is pre-deceased by sisters; Catherine Melan and Kabad Norman and brothers; Toufic, Joseph, and Elias Merhi.
Services: Calling hours will be held on Wednesday June 24, 2009 from 6pm until 8pm with Prayer of the Incense at 7pm in Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Catholic Church, 4th and Ferry Streets in Easton and on Thursday June 25, 2009 in the Morello Funeral Home, 3720 Nicholas Street Palmer Twp. from 8:30am until 9:30am. A Divine Liturgy will be held on Thursday at 10:00 am in the church. Interment will be in the Gethsemane Cemetery, Palmer Twp.
Contributions: In Josephine’s honor, the family has requested donations be made to Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Catholic Church, 4th & Ferry Streets in Easton.