Joseph Azzarone, Sr.

Shrewsbury - Joseph Azzarone, Sr. died peacefully with family at his side on Friday, July 24, 2026. He was 82.

Born on October 19, 1943, in Worcester, Joe was one of three children of the late Pantaleo and Angelina (Padavano) Azzarone. He grew up on Shrewsbury Street in the city’s East Side, graduated from North High School, and later earned a degree from the New England School of Accounting. Joe proudly served in the Army National Guard Reserves.

Joe had a long and dedicated career with the United States Postal Service at its Shrewsbury distribution center. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to own and operate several restaurants over the years, including the well‑known JJ’s Lounge in Sutton.

A passionate golfer, Joe enjoyed countless rounds with friends at Raceway Golf Club in Thompson, Connecticut, and at courses throughout the area. He remained a lifelong, devoted New York Yankees fan. Friendly by nature, Joe had an uncanny ability even during periods of illness to bring a smile to those around him and a genuine interest in getting to know others. Strong‑willed, sharp‑witted, and blessed with an unmistakable sense of humor, he was truly one of a kind.

Beneath his tough exterior was a man with a generous heart, deeply devoted to his family and friends. Joe never missed an opportunity to bust your chops, and everyone who knew him understood that it was simply his unique way of showing affection. Proud of his Italian heritage, he found great joy in cooking and cherished family gatherings, where loved ones came together to share food, laughter, and lasting memories. Joe cherished the role of both father and grandfather and watching his grandchildren grow and thrive in all of their sports and activities made him so very happy.

Joe was predeceased by his wife of 41 years, Carol A. (Clayton) Azzarone on April 20, 2014.

He leaves his children, Jodie A. Marks (James) of Worcester, Joseph Azzarone Jr. (Elisia) of Shrewsbury, Sallee A. Stearns (Mark) of Holden; his grandchildren, Jillian Powers (Liam), Brian O’Connor (Katlyn) and Brandon O’Connor, Samantha, Cole and Julia Azzarone and Gabriella Stearns; great-grandchildren, Harper, Remi, Zeke and Callan; his siblings, Gerald ‘Jerry’ Azzarone and Susanna Festa (Michael), all of Worcester; his longtime companion, Drena Troiano of Shrewsbury; also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will honor Joe's life by gathering for a Morning Wake on Thursday, July 30th from 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. in Our Lady of Loreto - Mt. Carmel Church, 33 Massasoit Road, Worcester, followed by his funeral Mass celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in Mountain View Cemetery, Shrewsbury.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Veterans Inc., 69 Grove Street, Worcester, MA 01605 or https://www.veteransinc.org/

Arrangements by James + John Heald of The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street, Waltham.