Joseph Raymond Brocato, Sr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and loyal servant of the Lord, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on October 20, 1937, in Helena, Arkansas, to the late Frank and Nettie Brocato, Joe lived a life marked by deep faith, unwavering love for his family, and a commitment to serving others.
Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 49 years, Ann Elizabeth (Kelly) Brocato, whose love and partnership formed the foundation of their family. Together they built a beautiful legacy of devotion and kindness, nurturing their five children and watching with pride as their family grew to include many grandchildren who have carried on their values.
He is survived by his children, Joe Jr. and Rebecca Brocato of Alexandria, VA, and their children Josie, Isabelle, and Jackson; Vince Brocato and Tara Walter of Collierville, TN, and their children Josh Brocato, Jonathan and Madeleine Tooby; Mike and Shannon Brocato of Memphis, TN, and their children Andrew and Benjamin; Kelly (Brocato) and Kevin Work of Alexandria, VA, and their children Connor and Avery; and David and Rachel Brocato of Memphis, TN, and their children Eleanor and Lucy. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends all of whom were touched by his kindness, unmatched humor, and generosity.
A proud alumnus of St. Mary's High School in Helena and the University of Notre Dame (Go Irish!), Joe had a successful career as a financial manager with Schering-Plough for 42 years, retiring in 2002. He and Ann relocated to Olive Branch, MS, after their retirement, where they enjoyed traveling, visiting family, and being active in their local church, Queen of Peace. As a dedicated member of the church, Joe served as an usher, eucharistic minister, and was actively
involved in the Knights of Columbus, exemplifying a life of service and devotion.
But those who knew Joe best will also remember him for his infectious sense of humor. A man with a quick wit and a gift for making others laugh; Joe had an unparalleled ability to lighten the mood and bring a smile to anyone's face. Whether telling a joke, sharing a funny story, or just making a playful comment, Joe's humor was a constant source of joy for his family and friends. He had a way of making everyone feel at ease, and his laughter was a sound that filled any room he entered. His ability to find humor in life's ups and downs, paired with his deep sense of kindness, made him not only a great father and grandfather, but also a cherished friend.
Joe's family was the center of his life. He found immeasurable joy in spending time with his children and grandchildren, especially on the annual family vacations to the beaches of 30A in Florida and taking his children and grandchildren to South Bend, IN for Notre Dame football games.
Joe lived a life that exemplified love and devotion – qualities that made him a beacon of light to all who knew him. His gentle spirit, generous heart, loving nature, and commitment to God and family will never be forgotten. Though his passing leaves a profound emptiness, his legacy will
continue to inspire and guide those who loved him. May he now rest in the peace of the Lord, reunited with his beloved Ann and surrounded by the angels in Heaven.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all the loving nurses and care staff at Harbor Chase Germantown and Methodist Germantown Hospital who cared for Joe.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to: Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Alzheimer Foundation,
The Parkinson's Foundation,
St. Jude’s, or a
charity of your choice.
Visitation will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home in Memphis, TN on Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 5-7 p.m. with a rosary at 7 p.m. A Funeral Mass to celebrate Joe's life will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church on November 22, 2024, at 10 a.m., with burial to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.
"Rejoice always, pray constantly, and for all things give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus". (1 Thessalonian 5:16-18
Published by The Daily Memphian on Nov. 13, 2024.
