Joseph Francese, 78, was called home to the Lord on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Calabria, Italy and came to the United States at the early age of 12. His family settled in Nutley where he lived until he met and married his beloved wife, Carol Carchio. They resided “up the hill” in Lyndhurst, NJ.

Joseph worked as an offset printing specialist for Hoffman La Roche in Nutley/Totowa for 38 years, retiring in 2007. He enjoyed spending time with his family, going down the shore, trips to AC, the Meadowlands Racetrack, vacationing with friends and family, and purchasing weekly NJ lottery tickets.

Fox News was often on the TV in the background at home, as well as western shows. He was a physically active person, taking daily walks, jarring tomatoes for his homemade sauce, making his own red wine, and tending to his fig tree. He showed his love for his family through his cooking and loved to grill all year round. Joseph’s two granddaughters brought him endless joy and happiness; they lovingly referred to him as “Grampy” and have wonderful memories of times spent together. Joseph’s labor of love for his family has gone quiet now, but his memory will keep our hearts full of love and laughter as we go on without him.

Joseph is predeceased by his parents, Emilio and Teresa (nee Algieri) and his sisters; Maria Francese, Santa Greco and Susan Mastroeni. He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Carol (nee Carchio) Francese, by his loving children, David Francese and Gina Iannone and her husband, Joseph Iannone, by his dear granddaughters, Justine and Jana Iannone, his sister, Anna Cifelli and by his brother, Frank Francese. Joseph is also survived by his many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Relatives and friends are to attend the visitation held at Nazare Memorial Home, Inc., 403 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst, NJ on Sunday, July 13, 2025 from 2 - 6 PM.  All will gather at the funeral home on Monday, July 14, 2025 at 9 AM.  Then to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Lyndhurst where at 10 AM a funeral mass will be offered.  Interment to follow, Hillside Cemetery, Lyndhurst.  In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to American Liver Foundation online by clicking here.  You may express your condolences to Joseph’s family by using our tribute wall.