Josephine Cimino, 67, Inquirer editorial assistant

Josephine Cimino, 67, a retired editorial assistant at The Inquirer, died of Alzheimer's disease Monday, Aug. 29, at Voorhees Care & Rehabilitation Center.

Ms. Cimino, known as "Josie," joined the newsroom staff in 1989, after 26 years with Western Union.

She was hired by Karen Knoll Bergbauer, a former Western Union colleague who was the newsroom's office manager. "At the time, Western Union was closing and The Inquirer was hiring editorial assistants. Josie was my first choice," Bergbauer said.

Ms. Cimino answered the city desk phones, processed reporters' expenses and time sheets, and performed a variety of administrative duties.

"She deftly fielded problems with customers and editors, always with a smile," Bergbauer said.

In 1993, Tom Steacy, an Inquirer editor, discovered on deadline that candidate questionnaires for a voters' guide had never been mailed. Ms. Cimino took on the task of mailing the information, including finding addresses, on a busy Friday morning, Steacy said.

"Her willingness to help and calmness in the face of calamity was a pleasure to observe," Bergbauer said.

Virginia A. Smith was city editor and a reporter when Ms. Cimino was on the staff. "Josie was extremely pleasant and efficient. No muss, no fuss," Smith said. "She was completely trustworthy. Just a joy to work with."

Ms. Cimino, who retired in 2003, was remembered by Inquirer colleagues for her devotion to her parents, siblings, and their families, and her enthusiasm for the Phillies.

"She had Phillies pennants, photos, and programs all around her work space, and often wore a Phillies T-shirt and cap to the office," Smith recalled.

For 34 years, Ms. Cimino had Phillies season tickets. Twice, she went to spring training in Clearwater, Fla., with family members, her sister Paula DiGiacomo said, and once she treated them to a trip to Atlanta for a Phillies-Braves game. Her great-nephew and godson, Mark Bergman, was a Braves fan, DiGiacomo said.

Ms. Cimino grew up in South Philadelphia and graduated from South Philadelphia High School. She enjoyed photography and needlecrafting.

In addition to her sister, she is survived by another sister, Diane, and nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, Paul and Dina Cimino; a brother, Joseph; and a sister Mel Di Mingo.

A Funeral Mass was said Thursday, Sept. 1, at St. Teresa Roman Catholic Church, Runnemede. Burial was in SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Marple Township.

Donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association, 3 Eves Dr., Suite 310, Marlton, N.J. 08053.