Joseph Ponticello

Joseph L. Ponticello, 83, of Mays Landing (formerly of South Philadelphia) passed away peacefully at home on January 27, 2013. Joe was born and raised in Philadelphia and shared most of his years with his family in both Philadelphia and Atlantic City. As a young boy of the Depression era, he worked at Palumbo’s Night Club in Philadelphia to help his parents and family and continued there for over fifty years while pursuing an education and ultimately working and retiring from the Philadelphia Board of Education. He is also a Veteran of the U.S. Army, receiving an Honorable Discharge in 1953. During his retirement years he traveled and enjoyed life with his wife Josephine and relocated to the Fairways in Mays Landing. He also worked contractually during his retirement at Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City enjoying meeting and mingling with many people. Joe had many blessings in life and is survived by his loving wife of nearly 59 years, Josephine. They were married at Epiphany of Our Lord Church in Philadelphia where he also served as a lector and sang with his sister, Rita. Joe leaves behind a daughter, Marianne and her husband Matthew Ranieri; and daughter-in-law, Barbara Ponticello. He was also a wonderful and loving “Pop-pop” to granddaughters Caitlin Ponticello and Venus & Alexandria Ranieri. Joe was predeceased by his loving and devoted son Joseph B. Ponticello. Joe was also predeceased by his sister, Rita Ponticello, and he also leaves behind a half-brother, Gino Azzena. Joe is lovingly remembered by his extended family and many friends. His smile, his singing and his love and generosity will be sorely missed. A viewing will be held on Thursday, January 31 from 10:00am- 11:30am at St. Vincent De Paul Church, 5021 Harding Highway, Mays Landing, NJ 08330 with Mass of Christian Burial following at 11:30am. Burial will be at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations may be made in Memory of Joseph L. Ponticello to St. Vincent DePaul Roman Catholic Church at the address above.