Jacqueline Ann LoSasso Watson

GIRARD - Jacqueline Ann LoSasso Watson, 71, passed away peacefully at her home, Thursday morning, Aug. 23, 2018.

Jacqueline, who was known to all as “Jacqui,” was born Sept. 14, 1946, in Youngstown, a daughter of the late Richard J. LoSasso, Sr. and the late Elizabeth Lepsik LoSasso.

She was a 1964 graduate of Ursuline High School and attended Youngstown Business College. Later, Jacqui lived for many happy years in Huntsville, Ala., where she was an active and respected member of the community and the President of the Amputee Coalition of Northern Alabama. She returned to the Youngstown area in 2005 to be closer to family, and lived out her remaining years in Girard.

Despite struggling to overcome many health issues, including the loss of both legs, Jacqui was fiercely independent and determined to live a full life. Anyone who knew her could only describe her as "one tough cookie" who never allowed her circumstances to hold her back. As member of St. Rose Church in Girard, Jacqui found great strength and comfort in her Catholic faith and the power of the Rosary, which inspired her to remain positive and hopeful about the future, and compassionate towards others.

Jacqui was a loving and dedicated daughter, sister, and aunt who was always there for her family. She leaves a sister, Stephanie DeMain of Holland, Pa; a brother, Richard J. LoSasso, Jr. of Mineral Ridge; two nieces, Joy (Mike) Newingham of Stow, Ashley DeMain of Philadelphia, Pa.; a nephew, James DeMain of Denver, Colo.; two great-nieces, Gabriella Elizabeth and Gia Carina; her lifelong friend and "cumma", Judy Pezzulo; and Olivia Grubbs Mann and Paul Grubbs, who she loved as though they were her own children.

A brother, James LoSasso, preceded her in death.

Family and friends may gather for fellowship from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Friday, August 31, at St. Rose Church, 48 Main Street, Girard, where a Memorial Mass will follow at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, Ms. Watson’s family suggests that anyone wishing to make a memorial contribution do so by donating to the Amputee Coalition of America through www.amputee-coalition.org/ways-to-give/honor-a-loved-one/; or to the donor's favorite charity.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kinnick Funeral Home in Youngstown.