Josephine R. Schum

Josephine (Rose) Schum died on October 9, 2023, in her Cumru residence. Born on November 17, 1926, Jo was the widow of John L. (Jack) Schum, who passed away on February 11, 2018. The couple would have been married 72 years on March 2, 2018.

Jo was the daughter of Mary (Rullo) and Angelo Rose. She also was predeceased by her half-sister, Clare Gelsomini Sutton, and her half-brother, Fernando Gelsomini.

A former cosmetologist, Jo was trained at Bryland Beauty School and was the owner-operator of Julyn Beauty Shop on Lancaster Avenue in Reading. She also worked as a shampoo person at several other local beauty shops. In addition, Jo served as Assistant Activities Director at the former Hassler Home (now Genesis) on Philadelphia Avenue. She earned her GED in the mid-1970s.

Jo was a member of St. John Baptist de LaSalle Church in Shillington.

She enjoyed cooking, reading, arranging flowers, and decorating her home.

"Feisty" and strong-willed, Jo handled the loss of her vision and declining health on her own terms. Helping her face the challenges was Eva Thompson, her live-in caregiver through Griswold Home Care. From August 2022 until her passing, Jo listened for Eva's "Mama Mia," the name Eva called her, and reached for Eva's hand throughout each day.

The family also is thankful for Compassus for providing hospice care.

Jo is survived by her daughters, Judith A.Schum of Shillington, and Jacquelyn M., wife of Robert J. Bruckart, of Grill. Other survivors include grandchildren, Robert J. Bruckart lll (Misty) of Indianapolis, IN, and Alicia A. Reilly (Paul) of Bethlehem, as well as great-grandchildren, Penelope Laine Reilly and Sydney Paige Reilly.

Services will be at the convenience of the family. Condolences may be expressed at kuhnfuneralhomes.com.