Josiane T. Serra

Josiane ‘Josie’ Therese Serra, 57, of Elkton, MD passed away on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 after a very courageous battle with breast cancer. She was born on February 17, 1954 in Guerigny, France.

She is survived by her mother, Denise M. (Peltier) Andrews and husband Lyle of Elkton, MD; her beloved and devoted son, Andrew W. Prettyman of Elkton, MD; brothers, Christian G. Serra and wife Karen of Conowingo, MD, Philippe C. Serra and wife Pamela and their son Philippe II of Colora, MD and Jean-Michael W. Serra and wife Brenda of Iowa and their three daughters, Ashley, Stephanie and Jessica; Ahmed Hara of Monroe, NJ, and half brother, Frank Serra of France.

She was preceded in death by her father, Jean Dominique Serra and brother, Ange Dominique Serra.

Josie spent her childhood and teenage years in Kenitra, Morocco. She moved to the U.S. in 1972 and, a few years later, proudly became and American citizen. She was very athletic and excelled at ping-pong, handball and soccer. She loved to play soccer with her brothers. In 1975 she joined Cecil Community College Soccer Team and was one of the first women to play on the men’s team.

Josie was an entrepreneur and worked many years in the building supply business. She was previously a co-owner of J&J Home Improvement Center and most recently, owned and managed her own store, Surplus Depot in Elkton.

Josie loved to shop and travel and collected oil paintings and antiques during her travels. She also made beautiful stained-glass windows using her own designs. She was very passionate about gardening, nature and animals. She was an excellent cook and inspired her son and others to cook. Josie loved music and loved to dance and was always one of the last to leave the dance floor. She was very compassionate and cared deeply about others, especially those less fortunate. She opened her heart and home to the homeless.

She treasured every precious moment with her son and family. Her greatest joy was the holiday gatherings and cookouts with her family.

Josie’s memory and all those special memories she gave others will be carried on in the hearts of all who loved her.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 at Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church, 454 Bow Street, Elkton, MD 21922 where friends may call one hour prior.