Joseph "Joe" Anthony Engrassia, Sr.
January 9, 1939 ~ August 31, 2024
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ROCKY MOUNT – Joseph “Joe” Anthony Engrassia, Sr., age 85, passed away on Saturday, August 31, 2024. Born in Kearny, NJ, he was the son of the late Fortunato Engrassia and Antoinette Nicolette Engrassia. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Lucille Jean Engrassia; his grandsons, Joey Engrassia and Jay Marles; and his sister, Marie Caputo.
Joe was a devout Catholic and a proud 4th-degree member of the Knights of Columbus, a global Catholic fraternal service organization. He proudly served his country as a communication specialist in the United States Navy. Joe was deeply committed to bringing joy to children, playing the role of Santa Claus for over 20 years, a tradition he held close to his heart. He was also an avid golfer who relished the game, finding great enjoyment on the greens. His love for his family, especially his grandchildren, was unmatched. They adored their “Poppy,” and the bond they shared was one of profound affection. Joe was known for his personable nature and had a deep respect for education and proper conduct. Joe’s genuine spirit and strong convictions left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Joe is survived by his daughter, Cynthia "Cindy" Lamberson (Brian); his sons, Joseph Anthony Engrassia, Jr. (Patricia) and Anthony Gerard "Tony" Engrassia (Marie); his grandchildren, Brianna Engrassia, D.J. Engrassia, Anthony Engrassia (Kathryn), Jessica Horne (Patrick), Sarah Stancavish, Jason Stancavish, Carl Lamberson, and Jacks Lamberson; and his great-grandsons, Tucker Horne and Justin Horne.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, September 6, 2024, at 6:30 PM at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 331 Hammond Street, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 with Rev. Paul Nicholas Cottrill, V. F. celebrating. A Rosary will be recited at 6:15 PM before the Mass at the church.
A Visitation will be held on Friday, September 6, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM at Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Joe’s name to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 328 Hammond Street Rocky Mount, NC 27804.
Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.
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To Joseph , Antony and Cindy I am so sorry for your loss of your Dad (Uncle Joe ). I always have great memories of all of you . God bless all of you
Sending love and strength to Cindy and family at this difficult time.
We are sending our love and prayers!
In Memory of Joe: For all the good things he did! The ones that they saw and “The ones that only God saw, remembers and blesses him for! “
Many blessing to the family. He loved you all so much and so proud of each and everyone of you. He talked about you all the time. He always looked out for me and my son even though we are Red Sox Fans!! He is with Lucille, and they are watching over all of you.
Mr. Engrassia WAS THE BEST Santa at his son’s,Tony’s Christmas party…along with his wife being Mrs,Santa…what a darling couple!!! Now this sweet couple are together again in Heaven…much love and smiles! Morrie M.
A person who loved me and provided me love and support Dad. I will always remember what u taught me.