Josephine "Jody" Loeffler

Josephine Ann Loeffler

Josephine (Jody) Ann Loeffler of Carlisle passed away at her cherished home on Friday, October 11, 2024, two days after celebrating her 101st birthday. Born in Gratteri, Sicily in 1923, she was the daughter of Enrico (Henry) Barranco and Maria Palazzo. Jody immigrated to the United States with her parents at the age of three. She was the adoring wife of John (Jack) George Loeffler, MD who passed away in 2017. High school sweethearts, they were married for 76 years.

Jody is s urvived by her sister, Esther Daniels; a son, John Randall, husband of Debbie Loeffler; a daughter, Jan Avery, married to Thomas Bergen; six grandchildren, Lauren Pryor, Alison Bergen, Lucas Loeffler, Kyle Quinn, Steven Loeffler and Avery Loeffler; and six great grandchildren; Emma, Anderson, Liam, Daniel, Rowan and Indie. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Jay Steven Loeffler, MD, husband to Nancy Tarbell, MD. 

Her family was the greatest joy in her life, and she didn’t hesitate to shamelessly brag about the accomplishments of her children and grandchildren whenever provided the opportunity. Jody had a wonderful passion for life, and she lived every minute of her 101 years to its fullest. She felt blessed to live in a community where she was surrounded by loving friends and neighbors who she adored. Her family will forever be grateful to all her dear friends who surrounded her with love and support, especially over the past five years. Jody graduated from New Jersey State Teacher’s College in 1944 with a degree in early education and prioritized the importance of education her entire life. She was a substitute teacher in local school districts, an advisor to several School Superintendents and a tutor for people who recently came to the US and wanted to learn the English language.

An avid athlete, she and Jack loved playing golf and tennis and took great pleasure in defeating their children in both sports well into their 60s. Her tennis and golf leagues were also very special to her over the years. A gourmet cook, and proponent of healthy eating, she taught her children the importance of a Mediterranean diet and routine exercise. For decades she remained an active member in the League of Women Voters and the Carlisle Hospital Medical Auxiliary. Jody’s gregarious personality made it nearly impossible to walk around Carlisle without running into people she knew. She was a confidante and friend to many. She will be sorely missed.

A service at Second Presbyterian Church in Carlisle has been scheduled on January 18, 2025 at 10:00 am for family and friends.