Joseph A. Stephano
9/8/1938 – 12/27/2024
Age 86, longtime resident of Upland, PA.
Joe passed away peacefully with his family by his side on December 27, 2024.
Joe had a heart of gold that doesn’t come any bigger or brighter. Everyone loved his lively and humorous personality. He had immense love for his family and God.
Born and raised in West Philadelphia, he graduated from West Catholic High School and served in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1961.
He was an active and longtime member of Our Lady of Charity Parish, helping with various church functions and serving as an usher.
Joe worked in data processing and mainframe computers for 45 years before his retirement in 2000, later finding a second calling in the funeral industry.
Joe gave endless hours serving many organizations. He was President of the Christopher Columbus Memorial Association, and a member of the Sons of Italy, Knights of Columbus, ARA Delco, and Ciao Delco, to name a few. In earlier years, he belonged to the Briarcliff Father and Sons Organization. He enjoyed his weekend retreats at the Men of Malvern Retreat House, attending for 51 consecutive years.
Joe maintained a rigorous exercise routine, working out 3 times a week at the gym, where he was affectionately known as “the mayor.” He delighted his gym friends with his many jokes and warm personality.
His pride in his family, respect for the military, and love of his hobbies were proudly displayed in his meticulously organized “man cave”, a space that reflected his passion and care for the things he cherished most.
He was the son of the late Joseph H. and Mary (Carroll) Stephano and was preceded in death by his siblings John and Mary.
He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years: Diane (Pasquella) Stephano; his children, Linda Bakey of Brookhaven, Theresa Campuzano of Upper Chichester, Donna (Gary) Butterworth of Aston, and Robert (Kathleen) Stephano of Garnet Valley; 9 grandchildren, Thomas (Kimberly), Laura, Gina, Joseph, Carlee, Casey, Ryan, Ethan and Megan; 1 great-grandchild, Emilia. Also survived by his sister, Dolores Tanz.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his memory to Men of Malvern Retreat House.
Relatives and friends are invited to his Viewing Saturday, January 4, 2025; 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. followed by his Funeral Mass 11:00 a.m. ALL IN CHURCH at Our Lady of Charity Church 231 Upland Rd., Brookhaven, PA 19015. Interment Mount Hope Cemetery.
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