Josephine Farny Little

July 3, 1920 - Sept 22, 2015

Josie Little died peacefully, surrounded by family, at home in Aptos on September 22nd. She was an active and generous philanthropist, a great friend to many, a wise and loving mom and grandmother, and a newlyminted great-grandmother.

Josie was born in 1920 to Margaret and Eugene Farny in Buffalo, New York. She spent her early childhood in Winnetka, Illinois and teenage years outside of Cincinnati, Ohio, while her father worked in the family (Wurlitzer Piano) business. Josie graduated from Vassar in 1942 with a BA in Art History. That year she married Prescott (“Pete”) Pervere. During the War, Josie worked for Time Magazine in NYC. Josie and Pete moved to San Francisco in 1946, then to Marin County (Kentfield) in 1947. There, Josie not only raised their four children, but also volunteered with both the Junior League and the Family Service Agency, before going to work in the antique business and later the Branson School. Josie and Pete divorced in 1959. She continued living in Marin and was happily married to Roy Roche from 1961 until his death in 1974.

In 1978, Josie married Bailey Little and moved to his “retirement” house in Aptos. There Josie and Bailey’s love of art led them to a long association with the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History. Josie was well known for her curiosity and pursuit of good art, and was an active member of the MAH’s Art Forum Executive Committee even at 95. Always interested in education, Josie promoted women returning to college through both the Cabrillo College Foundation and Cabrillo’s Women’s Educational Success. In her late 70’s she became a lover of modern music, and a loyal supporter of the Cabrillo Music Festival.

Josie’s husband H. Bailey Little and her daughters Martha and Lucy Pervere predeceased her. She is survived by her son, Peter Pervere (Georgia Cassel) of Piedmont, her daughter, Maude Pervere (Sam Miller) of Piedmont, grandchildren Eli Miller, Nathaniel Miller, Jill Saper (Dan), Jordan Pervere and great granddaughter Lily Saper.

A memorial service celebrating her life is being planned, but is not yet scheduled.

In lieu of flowers, donations could be made to a charity of your choosing, or Cabrillo College Foundation, Cabrillo Music Festival, Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History, or Jewel Theater.