Joseph Cardaci

Joseph M. Cardaci, 93, of Silver Spring, Maryland, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025. Born in Haverstraw, New York, on April 25, 1932, to the late Paul and Hilda Cardaci, Joe grew up with his siblings Paul, Tommy, and Mary Jean before the family moved to Washington, D.C. in the 1940s. At St. John's College High School, he excelled in sports and was a four-sport athlete, earning second-team All-American honors in football his senior year. He was heavily recruited and went on to play football at William & Mary before serving proudly in the U.S. Army. Joe's lifelong passion for teaching and coaching began when he returned to St. John's as a teacher and coach. He later became the first varsity football and baseball coach at Our Lady of Good Counsel High School, shaping the lives of countless students and athletes. In 1958, Joe met Ann D'Alessandro, the love of his life. They married in 1959 and shared nearly 65 years of marriage, raising four children—Kathy, Jim, Kelly, and Joe Jr.—and enjoying a life filled with travel, golf, cooking, faith, and devotion to family. They were also proud season ticket holders of the Washington Redskins, creating lasting memories together at games. Alongside his roles as husband and father, Joe gave much of himself to his community. He coached youth sports, founded the CYO program at St. Patrick's Parish, and even refereed college games to support his family. Later, he built a successful career in the insurance industry, retiring in 1989 as president of Citicorp Insurance Agency. Retirement only deepened his dedication to service—he was the founder of the St. Patrick's Parish homeless ministry, where he devoted countless hours to feeding those in need. Joe's proudest title was "Papa" to his granddaughters Gabrielle, Michaela, and Raphaella, whom he supported in every endeavor. He is survived by his son Jim; daughters Kathy Hummer and Kelly Donovan; son-in-law Bill Donovan; granddaughters Gabrielle, Michaela, and Raphaella Donovan; and brother Tommy. He was preceded in death by his wife Ann; son, Joe Jr.; sister, Mary Jean; brother, Paul; parents, Paul and Hilda; and son-in-law Bob Hummer. A funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in Silver Spring, MD, on Wednesday, September 24, at 11 a.m., followed by a reception at Leisure World. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Joseph M. Cardaci Jr. Scholarship Fund at Our Lady of Good Counsel High School in Olney, MD. www.olgchs.org/memorial. Joe's life was a testament to love, faith, and service. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched. Online condolences may be expressed at www.barberfhlaytonsville.com