Josephine M.  (Bernat, Miara) Herbert, 97, of Plaistow, NH, died peacefully during the night of September 6, 2018, at her home in Plaistow. The daughter of the late John and Steffia Bernat, Josephine was raised in Medford, MA, on the banks of the Mystic River where she mastered the tides to become a powerful and graceful swimmer. After graduating from Medford High School, she married Andrew Miara with whom she had three children: Richard (deceased) Joan and James.  Following Andrew Miara's death, she married Edward Herbert, the father of Ruthie and Stephen from a previous marriage.

Josephine is survived by two sisters, Leona Durham of Medford, MA, and Stella Janiak of Lynne, MA; a brother, John Bernat of Medford, MA; daughters Joan A. Ruggiero and her husband Ronald Ruggiero (deceased) of Plaistow, NH, Ruthie Kunyz and her husband Peter of Londonderry, NH, and son James Miara and his wife Christine of Concord, MA; and the Canon Rev. Stephen Herbert of Newcastle, Eng.

As one of 10 children, Josie learned early the value of family and throughout her life worked diligently to maintain contact with her numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren who now reside in states across the country.  She also maintained regular contact with foster children, Ronald and Warren Callahan, whom she nurtured during their early years.

For more than 23 years, Josephine volunteered with the Meals on Wheels program of Southern New Hampshire, helping out with elderly folks whom she called her "seniors" even during the many years when she was older than her clients.

An enthusiastic traveler, Josephine ventured to such countries as Brazil, Denmark and England, bringing home stories of her journeys that expanded her worldview. Until the very end, Josephine enjoyed robust health and mental acuity. The day before she died, she drove her Cadillac down the long driveway to the mail box to retrieve the mail and the Lawrence Eagle.

Arrangements : Calling hours will be Tuesday, September 11 ^th from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Brookside Chapel & Funeral Home, 116 Main St., Plaistow, NH. A memorial service will begin at 11:15 at Brookside Chapel followed by a procession to Cemetery on the Plains, Windham, NH, for interment. Guests are invited to a celebratory lunch in honor of Josephine at the Common Man Restaurant, 88 Grange Rd., Windham, NH, following the graveside service.

Memorial contributions in Josephine's name may be made to the Plaistow Fireman's Association, 27 Elm St. Plaistow, NH, 03865

To send messages of condolence to the family, please view the obituary at www.brooksidechapelFH.com .