Josephine C. Badale, 102, of Kansas City, passed away September 4, 2023. She was born in Kansas City, MO on June 17, 1921 to the Honorable Frank Benanti and Josephine LaBoi. Having spent most of her early life in Kansas City, Josephine's headstrong nature and free spirit soon took her to Dubuque, Iowa where she put her flare for the dramatics into practice and purpose at Clarke College (now Clarke University). Graduating with her degree in Theatre in 1942, Jo's time at Clarke was defined by on- and off-stage success having held several student leadership positions during her time and starring as the lead in a variety of on-campus productions.

Soon into her studies, Jo discovered that the stage was not the only thing calling her name. Back home in KC, and soon off to war, was her childhood friend, and sometimes childhood sweetheart, Gus Badale. In typical fashion, she played hard to get, while Gus remained ever persistent. He was always one mailed letter away from stealing her heart; and soon, that sometimes relationship became a forever love. They were married on September 3, 1946. And eventually, with a dash of patience and a spoonful of faith, they welcomed two beautiful children, always believing that God's timing was right – and it absolutely was.

Her faith was at the core of everything she did. With her rosary in her well-guarded purse and an unwavering love for God in her heart, Jo knew she could do it all. And so, she did. No matter her age, no matter her health, no matter her circumstance, Jo found the time and strength to always give back to others. Whether it was working in the Jackson County District Court to serve her community, bringing joy to every patron who entered the Desert Inn restaurant, or empowering women to be courageous business leaders through her work at ABWA, Jo was a true powerhouse.

Aside from motherhood, Jo most enjoyed her time at the Punkin Patch Daycare where she did what she has always done best: show her love through food. She cooked anything and everything for just about everyone. From meals at the daycare to traditional Sunday dinners of pasta and sugo, food was almost as integral a part of her life as her faith was. Some of her most cherished times were spent baking cheesecakes for the family restaurant and whipping up holiday cookies with her grandkids. She loved to laugh, loved to dance, and loved to play cards. She thought all things could be cured with a plate of spaghetti and meatballs. And to her, family and friends are what made life so beautiful.

She will forever be missed. But, as Gus always said to her, "All my love, darling. All my life."

Josephine is survived by her two children, Gary Badale and Cheryl Badale (Pat Sullivan); four grandchildren, Nikki Sullivan, Reid Sullivan, Michael King (Bethany), and Brian King (Rachel); and 5 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, the Honorable Frank Benanti and Josephine; her husband, Gus S. Badale; and her three siblings, Ignazio Benanti, Clarinne DiGiovanni, and Frank Benanti, Jr.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 8 at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Thomas More Parish, 11822 Holmes Rd, Kansas City, MO 64131. Burial service will take place immediately following Mass at Mount Moriah Cemetery South, 10507 Holmes Rd, Kansas City, MO 64131.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com.