Joanne Cutrone Carlini, a beloved educator and devoted family matriarch, passed away surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on March 10, 1936, in Akron, Ohio, to Italian immigrants Guy and Vera Cutrone. From a young age, Joanne exhibited remarkable intelligence and curiosity, traits that would define her life.
Growing up in Akron, she excelled in academics and developed a passion for music, playing the piano and forming lifelong friendships. Joanne took great pride in her Italian heritage and remained deeply connected to her roots in Akron, even after relocating to Southern California. In a time when few women sought higher education, Joanne broke the mold by enrolling in college. She graduated high school in 1954 and attended the University of Akron, where she majored in Spanish, demonstrating her impressive linguistic abilities.
After completing her studies, Joanne embarked on a career as a foreign language teacher, imparting knowledge of Spanish, French, and English to her students. Her dedication to education left a lasting impact on many, and she continued to teach at Palos Verdes High and Rolling Hills High after moving to California.
Joanne’s independence shone through when she became one of the first single women in her community to purchase a home, providing a stable environment for herself and her parents. In 1970, she married Vincent Carlini, and together they nurtured a loving family, welcoming eight children into their home.
The Carlini household was known for its warmth and generosity, with Joanne often preparing her famous “killer” meatballs, which became a culinary highlight for family gatherings. Although she later stepped back from teaching to focus on motherhood, her children always felt her unwavering support and encouragement.
After raising her family, Joanne and Vincent enjoyed traveling together, exploring the world hand in hand. The love they shared was evident to all who knew them. Vincent’s passing in 2004 was a profound loss for Joanne, but her faith as a devout Catholic helped her maintain hope for their reunion in the afterlife—a promise now fulfilled.
In her later years, Joanne faced the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease, which affected her health but never diminished her spirit. She remained resilient and determined, embodying strength until her final moments.
Joanne is preceded in death by her husband Vincent, her parents Guy and Vera Cutrone, and her brother Bob Cutrone. She is survived by her eight children: Walter (Susan) Carlini, Piero (Gilda) Carlini, Adriana (Nick) Zebeljan, Michelle (Raffaele) D’Eusebio, Patricia Carlini, Mauro (Deana) Carlini, David (Amy) Carlini, and Carla Carlini. She also leaves behind fifteen grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws who cherished her.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Holy Cross Cemetery, with services scheduled for February 7, 2024, in Culver City, California. Joanne Cutrone Carlini’s legacy of love, strength, and dedication to family and education will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.