Josephine ‘Joey’ Salerno Gilchrist
OBITUARY
Josephine Joey Salerno Gilchrist, 85, of Old Forge, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at home on January 22, 2026, after an illness, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born and raised in Old Forge, Joey was the daughter of the late Vito Salerno and Antonetta Schiavo Salerno. A proud graduate of Old Forge High School, she maintained close friendships with her classmates throughout her life, cherishing the bonds formed in her hometown.
Her professional life was rooted in the service industry, where she was known for her kindness, work ethic, and familiar presence – especially to those who remember her from Aldinos. Beyond her work, Joey was a steadfast caregiver whose love and support shaped the lives of those around her. She also found joy in the simple pleasures: spending time with her great grandchildren, shopping for something special, doing her makeup, and decorating her home with care and creativity. She was full of hospitality, always planning the next meal she was going to make or pick up from Rossi’s for her family.
She carried a quiet but steady Catholic faith throughout her life and was a member of Prince of Peace Parish in Old Forge, where she found a sense of comfort and familiarity.
She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Patricia Lavelle, as well as her siblings Anthony Salerno, Marie Phillips, Rose Cushing, and Sistina Tina Lackenby.
Joey is survived by her daughter, Jeanne Cusumano, who lovingly cared for her at the end of her life. She was the cherished grandmother of Marilyn and Bob French, Marie and Mark Chambers, Tommy and Karah Lavelle, and Tina Boyanowski. She was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren who were the light of her life: Bobby, Francis, Patti, and Rose French; Daisy Chambers; Lucas and Cooper Lavelle; along with one baby boy Chambers on the way, whom she was eagerly awaiting. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who loved her dearly.
Known for her impeccable style, Joey never missed a hair appointment and took great pride in looking her best – something her adored stylists can fondly attest to. She had a flair for fashion and a special love for anything leopard print, a signature touch that perfectly captured her personality. She was classy and kind, carrying herself with grace in every stage of life.
Joey also enjoyed playing golf for much of her life, continuing to do so for as long as she was able. The game brought her joy and friendship – simple pleasures she cherished deeply.
Joey will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, kindness, and the steady presence she brought to every room. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her, especially her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who will always carry her memory with them.
The family would like to thank Hospice of the Sacred Heart for the compassionate care they provided to Joey and her family at the end of her life.
Relatives and friends are invited to Joey’s funeral on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, with Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM in Prince of Peace Parish, 123 W. Grace St., Old Forge to be celebrated by Father Richard Bevington, C.S.C. Interment will be private.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Ferri & Gillette Funeral Services, LLC, 522 Fallon St., Old Forge. To leave an online condolence visit the funeral home website or Facebook page. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her honor to Hospice of the Sacred Hearts Camp Healing HeARTs program, 30 ED Preate Drive, Suite 108, Moosic, PA 18507.
Josephine ‘Joey’ Salerno Gilchrist
January 22, 2026