Joanne (Cutrone) Carlini, a beloved educator and devoted mother, passed away surrounded by her family, leaving behind a legacy of love and resilience. Born on March 10, 1936, in Akron, Ohio, to Italian immigrants Guy and Vera Cutrone, she demonstrated exceptional talent and curiosity from an early age.
Joanne grew up in a vibrant household where she excelled academically and developed a passion for music and languages. As a child, she showed a deep affinity for playing the piano, crafting paper dolls, and nurturing lifelong friendships. Her brother, Bob, was a significant figure in her life, and she carried a profound pride for her Italian heritage and the city of Akron, which she always considered home, even after relocating to Southern California.
After graduating from high school in 1954, Joanne chose a path less traveled for women of her time by pursuing higher education. She enrolled at the University of Akron, majoring in Spanish, where her remarkable gift for language flourished. This academic journey led her to become a foreign language teacher, instructing students in Spanish, French, and English, while also speaking Italian fluently. Her commitment to education left a lasting impact on her students and colleagues.
In the 1960s, Joanne moved to California, where she continued her teaching career at Palos Verdes High School and Rolling Hills High School. As a single woman, she demonstrated her independence by purchasing her first home, not only for herself but also to create a welcoming space for her parents.
In 1970, Joanne married Vincent Carlini, a partnership that blossomed into a loving family of eight children. After stepping back from her teaching career, she dedicated herself to motherhood, embracing her role with immense pride. The Carlini home became renowned for its warmth and generosity. While she claimed not to enjoy cooking, Joanne mastered the art, particularly known for her “killer” meatballs, which became legendary among family and friends.
Following their children’s upbringing, Joanne and Vincent enjoyed many years of travel together, sharing experiences that deepened their bond. Vincent’s passing in 2004 marked a significant loss for Joanne, yet her unwavering faith as a devout Catholic provided her comfort and strength, reinforcing her belief in reuniting with him one day.
Joanne faced her later years with the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease, which affected her memory but could not diminish her spirit. She remained resilient and fierce until her final moments, surrounded by the love of her family.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Vincent; her parents, Guy and Vera Cutrone; and her brother, Bob Cutrone. Joanne 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; along with fifteen grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws who cherished her deeply.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Holy Cross Cemetery, with services scheduled for February 7, 2024, in Culver City, California. Joanne (Cutrone) Carlini’s remarkable journey reflects a life filled with love, tenacity, and an enduring impact on those fortunate enough to know her.
