Joseph W. Fotia, 91

Mr. Joseph W. Fotia, 91, of Ellwood City went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, March 6th, 2024 at Franciscan Manor in Patterson Twp..

Mr. Fotia was born on April 29th, 1932 in Ellwood City to the late Frank L. and Josephine M. (Barillaro) Fotia. He had graduated from Ambridge High School. Joe enlisted with the United States Air Force on February 21st 1952 and served until his honorable discharge on February 16th, 1956 with the rank of Airman 1st Class. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. After serving in the Air Force, Joseph graduated from cosmetology school and owned and operated his beauty shop which was located on 5th St. in Ellwood City. He also worked at the Dustproof Mattress Cover Company, which later became Darbrooke Corporation, as a foreman. In 1969 Joseph, along with his brother Sam, became the co-owner and operator of Fotia Bros. Draperies and Jomar Manufacturing Company. Mr. Fotia is a member of the Divine Grace Parish, Holy Redeemer Church where he was a long time member of the Special Activities Group and 50 year volunteer for the annual church bazaar. He also was a member of the MOOSE Lodge #93, Sons of Italy, and the former Elks Club. In his earlier years Joe enjoyed playing golf and tennis. A people person, Joe will be remembered for his very outgoing personality

He is survived by his beloved wife Martha “Dolly” (Muntean) Fotia whom he married on September 9th, 1961 and cherished traveling and taking vacations with, sister Anna Marie Fotia, brother Sam (Joyce) Fotia, sister-in-law Shirley Fotia all of Ellwood City, and numerous nieces and nephews. Joseph is also survived by his many brothers and sisters-in-law.

Mr. Fotia was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Ralph Fotia and Vincent Fotia, and his sister-in-law Joan Fotia.

Family and friends will be received on Tuesday from 11:00 am until 12:30 pm at the Samuel Teolis Funeral Home and Crematory Inc.. A mass of Christian burial will follow on Tuesday at 1:00 pm at Divine Grace Parish, Holy Redeemer Church with Father James Wehner officiating. Interment will be at the Holy Redeemer Cemetery. Members of the Veterans Honor Guard are asked to meet at the church on Tuesday by 1:45 pm to conduct full military honors.

Mr. Fotia’s family would like to thank the staff of Franciscan Manor, Joe and Diana Barillaro, and Advanced Hospice for all the wonderful care they extended to him.