Obituary of Joseph A. Paoletta
Joseph Anthony Paoletta, born May 11, 1932, left this world on August 1, 2022, at the age of ninety. He spent his final days in the capable and kind hands of the doctors and nurses at St. Vincent's Medical Center. Joe passed with his five children at his side.
Joe grew up in Bridgeport, Connecticut, the son of Silvio and Jennie Scinto Paoletta, who were immigrants to the United States from Castelfranco in Miscano, Italy. A self-made man, Joe studied to be a pharmacist at the University of Connecticut (graduating cum laude), and later worked at Riccio's Medical Pharmacy in Bridgeport. Joe eventually owned Riccio's and ran it as a successful pharmacy until he retired in 1997. He was appointed to the executive board of the Connecticut Pharmaceutical Association. Joe was a dedicated pharmacist who served the East Side of Bridgeport community until he retired in 1997.
Joe was a lifelong Yankees and New York Giants fan, and later in life was a devoted fan of the UCONN Women's Basketball team. But those teams could not hold a candle to the teams his grandchildren played on. He would attend many of the basketball, lacrosse, football, and soccer games of all the kids.
Joe was a devout Catholic, a man of faith who appreciated the grace and gifts of God.
He was a traveler and an explorer who never stopped being amazed and inspired by the beauty of the world around him, and he relished the many opportunities he had to explore God's miracles here in America and abroad.
Joe was a patriot and honorably served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.
He passionately believed in giving back to community and was a long-time volunteer with Americares in Stamford, CT.
Joe was predeceased by his parents and beloved sisters, Antoinette Gresh and Donna Jean Paoletta.
Survivors include five children, ten grandchildren, and two great grandchildren: Hugh Paoletta, Joseph S. Paoletta (Jocelyn), Andrea Paoletta, Mark Paoletta (Tricia), and Paul Paoletta (Marina). Grandchildren: Sarah Paoletta Spelman (Sandra), Mathew Paoletta (Danielle), Jordan Paoletta (Steve), Jonathan Paoletta (Samantha), Joe Paoletta (Emily), Tessa Paoletta (Callum); Clare Paoletta; Isobel Paoletta; Sofia Paoletta, and Emma Paoletta. Great grandchildren: Jack Spelman and Theodore Paoletta. Survivors also include the mother of Joe's children, Eileen Paoletta, as well as his brother, former Bridgeport Mayor Leonard S. Paoletta.
Joe will leave a hole in the hearts of those who knew him, most especially his children and grandchildren. He will be deeply missed.
As a profoundly quiet and reserved man, Joe requested his burial be private and for immediate family only. A graveside service was held on Thursday, August 4, 2022. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be announced for a later date.
Joe was most generous to veteran's organizations, the Catholic Church, and many other charities. If you would like to make a donation in Joe's name, please donate to the organization most meaningful to you.
To leave an online condolence, visit www.abriola.com.