Josephine Patricia Alani (26 Feb 1931 - 10 Aug 2025)

In loving memory of Josephine Patricia Alani (née Rowan) who sadly passed away on 10th August 2025

Mum was a ball of energy, who would never sit down, or waste any hours in a day. This, with her stubborn and determined nature, meant she was driven by a strong purpose in life, wanting to make things better for others, no matter the cost to her. Her only personal indulgence was a weekly trip to the hairdresser. Everything else came first, particularly family.

Despite a head for business, mum was gentle and nurturing, showing her love through her kindness, and by cooking amazing meals she'd just throw togther in the kitchen. Her Sunday roasts were famous – they became a huge spread for family and friends – and her Irish welcome saw her pushing food at anyone who came to the door.

Mum was a perfect combination of softness and strength, and admired by all who worked with her. She became a little lost after finally retiring at the age of 78, but was just beginning to slow down and go back to her love of reading when Alzheimer’s struck in 2018. She was diagnosed just three weeks after dad – her adoring husband of 72 years.

Throughout the 7 years of illness, her stubborn and feisty nature endured, which family and carers loved to see. Mum really was still in there, despite the cruel mental and physical effects of the dementia. She also surprised everyone by being quite the natural comic - dad and close family often the butt of her jokes.

Unlike dad’s dementia, mum lost awareness of people within a couple of years, though she seemed to enjoy being with family, and close friends. She didn’t fully know who dad was, but when he died in June 2025, she stopped sleeping, eating and drinking. Mum knew something was wrong, but wasn’t able to understand what it was.

Her decline was rapid, and she passed away peacefully just three weeks after dad’s funeral.

Mum is sadly missed by all her family and those who were lucky enough to meet or know this exceptional person.

Josephine is survived by her children, John, Sonia, and Adelene; her grandchildren, Paul, Matthew, Catherine, Robert, and Maya; and her great grandchildren, Lucas, James and Raphael.