Josette Coyle, age 99, passed away on Friday, March 28, 2025, at her home. She was born on May 22, 1925, to Francois and Anna (Scarcligli) Tiano in Nice, France. Josette married Levi Helwick on July 16, 1945, in Lyon, France, while he was in the US Army European Theater. She arrived in New York on May 20, 1946, on the “Zebulon Vance” navy hospital ship with 500 war brides from England, France and Belgium. Their marriage lasted 32 years and Levi passed away in December 1976.

Josette lived in Rockford, IL, Long Beach, CA and Madison, WI. She made headlines on the “Rockford Morning Star” for saving her son from a terrible house fire and suffered many burns doing so. Josette was a volunteer for the Cub Scouts and a Den Mother for many years while living in Rockford. She liked the lakes but always missed the sea.

Josette married Don Coyle on August 27, 1977, at St. Paul Chapel in Madison, WI by reverend Father Tom Coyle and they took many trips abroad; France, Italy, Spain, the Caribbeans plus the islands of Puerto Rico, Martinique and Guadeloupe, along with a few cruises. Don passed away in October 2011. Their marriage lasted 34 years until his passing.

She worked over 20 years for the D.N.R in Madison and the bureau of Finance. After retiring, Josette volunteered at the University Hospital and Clinics and also for Respite Care Catholic Services for many years. She enjoyed watching the Packers games, playing cards with her friends and she also loved to read and travel. Josette could knit, crochet and sew just about anything. In 1996 she gave a big party for her family and friends to celebrate 50 years in the United States. She spoke French, English, Italian, and some Spanish.

Josette is survived by her daughter-in-law, Rosa Helwick; son-in-law, Vern Meier; 12 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; one sister, Simone Baise, other family from Haguenau, France and many other friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands; children, Jimmy Helwick, Barbara Meier, Simone Helwick; and grandson, Angel Helwick.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at St. Dennis Catholic Church, 505 Dempsey Rd, Madison, WI. Visitation will take place from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service. Interment will be held at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, 2705 Regent St, Madison, WI.

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Funeral of Josette Coyle

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Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

2418 N Sherman Ave

608-249-8257

Josette Coyle

May 22, 1925 - March 28, 2025

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