Sister Jerome Cotruzzola, C.S.JB., entered eternal life peacefully in Mt. St. John Convent, in Purchase, on the Feast of the Holy Innocents, Saturday, December 28, 2024, surrounded by the Sisters.

Josephine Rappana was born in Brooklyn on March 9, 1927, to Dominic Cotruzzola and Concetta Morrello, both of Italian heritage.

Sister entered the Sisters of St. John the Baptist on May 8, 1948, in Mt. St. John, White Plains, at the age of 21. She was received on February 19, 1949, in St. John Villa, Staten Island, made her First Profession on February 20, 1950, in Mt. St. John, White Plains, and professed her Final Vows on August 29, 1955 at Providence Rest Convent Chapel in the Bronx.

After 36 years in the African Mission, Sister returned to the American Province on July 4, 1992. Sister spent time with her family and got herself acclimated to life in her homeland.

On August 29, 2012, Sister Jerome retired in Mt. St. John Convent in Purchase. She enjoyed her retirement years, but due to illness, she needed more care.

On Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 1:05 p.m., Sr. Jerome answered the call of her beloved spouse and creator and returned to Him peacefully.

Sr. Jerome is survived by her niece and nephews whom she loved dearly.

The Mass of Resurrection was held on New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, December 31, 2024, in Mt. St. John Convent. The Liturgy was celebrated by Rev. Father George Kanshamba, Parochial Vicar of St. Anthony de Padua on West Harrison. Sister was interred at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Hawthorne.