Obituary of Joseph A Sferra

In Loving Memory of Joseph Sferra

Joseph Sferra, 88, of Raritan, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 66 years, Jeanette Sferra, a cherished father to his son Jay Sferra and daughter Ann Leeds and her husband Bill Leeds, and a proud grandfather to T.J. Sferra and his wife Cassie Sferra, Tori Sferra, Dylan Sferra and his wife Erika Sferra, Tyler Leeds, and Trevor Leeds. His legacy continues through his three great-grandchildren, Greysen, Sophia, and Hans, who adored him dearly.

Joe was more than just a loving family man – he was a cornerstone of the Raritan community. As a retired police chief, he led with compassion, integrity, and a deep sense of duty. His leadership left an indelible mark on the town he held so close to his heart. Even after retiring, he remained a guiding light for those around him, always ready with words of encouragement or a helping hand.

In his well-deserved retirement after 30 years on the police force, Joe found joy on the golf course, where he spent countless afternoons with friends and family. His love for the game was unmatched, and he often joked that the golf course was his second home. One of his proudest moments was hitting a hole-in-one on a par 3 at Quail Brook – a feat that left him smiling for days and became a favorite story to share. When he wasn’t golfing, Joe could often be found watching his beloved New York Yankees. A lifelong fan, he rarely missed a game and would light up at the chance to talk about his favorite player, Mickey Mantle. His admiration for Mantle’s talent and character was something he passed down to his children and grandchildren.

Joe’s love for music, especially Frank Sinatra, was a defining part of who he was. Whether at family gatherings or relaxing at home, Sinatra’s voice was often playing in the background. Joe admired Sinatra’s timeless style and lyrics, which he believed captured the beauty and complexity of life. To Joe, listening to Sinatra wasn’t just about the music – it was a reminder to savor every moment and celebrate the people you love.

Joe’s kindness and generosity were felt by everyone who crossed his path. He was known for his warm heart, infectious laugh, and ability to make anyone feel special. Whether it was through his service to the community or simply brightening someone’s day with a kind word or a joke, Joe had a remarkable way of putting others first. His unwavering care for those around him was a testament to the incredible man he was.

Joe is predeceased by his sister, Theresa Vitaliano, his brothers, Bill Sferra and Dominic Sferra, and his parents, Dominic and Bertha Sferra.

His family finds comfort in knowing that Joe’s spirit lives on in the love and memories he created. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a man who truly made the world a better place.

A viewing will be held on Friday, January 3rd, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Bongiovi Funeral Home 416 Bell Avenue Raritan, NJ. The funeral service will take place on Saturday, January 4th, at 10:30 AM at St. Ann’s Church 45 Anderson Street Raritan NJ followed by a burial at St. Bernard Cemetery, Bridgewater, NJ.

                                                 “Forever in Our Hearts”