In Loving Memory
JA
Joseph Anthony Porreca
June 2, 1949 — October 6, 2026
In loving memory of Joseph Anthony Porreca, who passed away on October 6, 2026, surrounded by his beloved family.
Joseph, affectionately known as Joe, was born on June 2, 1949, in Woodbury, New Jersey, to Joseph and Mary Anne Porreca. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, whose life was a testament to love, dedication, and service.
He shared a beautiful life with his cherished wife, Evelyn Porreca, whom he married on June 20, 1969, in Glassboro. Together, they celebrated 57 years of marriage, raising three wonderful children—Joseph (Jeel), Michael (Brooke), and Sharon—in their lifelong home of Glassboro. Joe and Evelyn were blessed with six grandchildren: Ava, Adrianna, Michael, Joseph, Allison, and Le’Anna, who brought immense joy and pride to Joe's life.
Joe was a proud graduate of Glassboro High School, Class of 1967. Shortly after, he served his country with honor in the U.S. Army for four years, including a year-long tour in Vietnam in 1970. His service was marked by courage and a deep sense of duty, characteristics that he carried throughout his life.
Following his military service, Joe dedicated over 30 years of his career to Campbells Express in Pitman, starting as a tractor-trailer driver and later becoming a dispatcher, before retiring in 2011. He was known for his hard work, reliability, and the genuine kindness he showed to all he encountered.
A man of many talents, Joe was an avid pool player and a skilled woodworker, crafting pieces that were not only functional but also imbued with love and craftsmanship. Winters were joyously spent in Key Largo, Florida, where he and Evelyn formed lasting friendships with fellow escapees from the northern cold.
Community was paramount to Joe, and he was an active member of the Saint Anthony Mutual Aid Society, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, a founding member. He also dedicated a decade of his life to serving as a volunteer firefighter, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.
Joe was predeceased by his loving parents, Joseph and Mary Anne Porreca. He is survived by his wife Evelyn; his children and their spouses; his grandchildren; and his siblings, Frances (Edward) and Carmine. Each of them will forever cherish the memories they created with him and the love he shared so freely.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Joe’s life on October 13, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at Kelley Funeral Home, located at 125 Pitman Ave, Pitman, NJ 08071. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Joe’s memory.
Joseph Anthony Porreca will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, service, and kindness will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, the family of Joseph Anthony Porreca welcomes donations to a charity, nonprofit, church, or organization of your choosing.
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