Josephine Rutter

Josephine A. Rutter, age 96, lovingly known as "Jane" to her family and friends, entered peacefully into eternal rest on April 11, 2026, surrounded by the comfort and love of her family in her son's home.
Born on March 18, 1930, to the late Galliano and Tessa Fagnani, Jane was a lifelong resident of South Philadelphia. A woman of deep and abiding faith, she devoted many years of her life in humble service as a housekeeper at St. Nicholas of Tolentine Rectory. Her life was a quiet testament to devotion, kindness, and unwavering trust in God.
Jane found joy in life's simplest blessings. She cherished her daily walks through her beloved neighborhood, often stopping at Geno's Steaks for her customary two cups of coffee. With a warm smile and gentle spirit, she greeted everyone she encountered, never speaking an unkind word about anyone. In her later years, she enjoyed watching television, especially her favorite program, Steve Wilkos.
Family was the center of Jane's world, and her grandchildren were truly her heart and soul. She was a loving and devoted wife to the late Charles "Buckey" Rutter; beloved mother to Charles "Chuckie" (Colleen) Rutter and the late Maria Eschert; and a cherished "Mom Mom" to Natalie, Anthony, and the late Charisse Eschert. She was also a proud and loving great-mom Mom to Emanuel Eschert, Joel Velez, and Josiah Brennan.
Jane was preceded in death by her siblings and will be deeply missed by her nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends, all of whom were touched by her gentle faith and loving presence.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Friday morning from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. at St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church, 9th and Watkins Streets, Philadelphia. Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m., followed by inurnment at SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jane's memory may be made to St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church, 910 Watkins Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148.
May she rest in the peace of Christ, reunited with her loved ones, and may perpetual light shine upon her.