Obituary of Nola Catherine Giarrante

Nola Catherine Giarrante, (nee Tozzi),  age 83, of Joliet, IL, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, with her loving husband by her side.

Born April 19, 1940 in Joliet, she was the daughter of the late Alfeo and Ann (Marentic) Tozzi, and was a graduate of Joliet Township High School and attended Joliet Junior College.

Nola was a fantastic wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who loved her family dearly and will be forever missed.  She was a woman of faith, deeply devoted to the Blessed Mother, and prayed the rosary daily.  She was also generous in her support of many charities.  Nola loved music and attending car shows with her husband and grandchildren, and will be remembered for her delicious cooking and her flair for fashion.  She loved the little things in life, like a simple meal with family, and carried her fiery personality to the end.

Surviving are her beloved husband, Gordon Giarrante; her children, Leslie (Mark) Shurson and Matthew (Julie) Rayburn; step-children, Jeff Giarrante, Jodi Giarrante, Todd Giarrante and Tony Giarrante; her grandchildren, Logan, Lucy and Lauren Rayburn, Marissa Hergott and Gina Giarrante; great-grandchildren; brother, Rick (Mary) Tozzi; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and two sisters, Janet Wilhelmi and Elaine Tozzi.

A Memorial Mass for Nola Giarrante will be celebrated Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 18 N. Woodlawn Avenue, Joliet.  Cremation rites have been accorded and interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in her name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org), Tunnels to Towers Foundation (www.t2t.org) or Lightways Hospice would be appreciated.

Fred C. Dames Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.  For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com