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JOE LEVI Obituary
BERCEUSE FUNERAL AND CREMATION TRADITIONS, 2609 Cunningham Dr., Hampton, 757-825-8070.
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Memories and Condolences
for JOE LEVI
Michael Rosso
June 3, 2025
He was a teacher of mine,at PCHS.he had a quick wit & since of humor.began every class with the our father prayer.reminded everybody we are a guest in his class room.he had everybody's un dying respect.will always be remembered as the very stern but tactful personality as a superior influence. He was very impressed when I was the only student who knew the song Barbra Streisand sang from Franklin Roosevelt campaign during the Great depression,"Happy Days are here Again"
Elizabeth Milne
September 11, 2020
I still miss Joe every time I walk by his classroom. I have a tennis plaque of his on my desk and it brings me a smile when I see it. I loved all of his puns and jokes... and our serious conversation. He changed so many kids’ lives... he still is remembered at many reunions. Sending love to his family and friends from all over.
Ronald Toms
July 16, 2020
Good teacher.
October 13, 2010
W henever you called his name, the response was "Speak To Me!" He always communicated with enthusiasm and verve. We all knew his loves: Philadelphia, Villanova, Tennis,Barbra Streisand, History, Humour, Laughter and the Catholic Faith! After I graduated From PC in 1977, there was no doubt that I would become a history major in college and that I did. Thanks Joe ! For myself and my four siblings that all were fortunate to have you at PCHS, We Love You. Marty Long PCHS 1977
October 6, 2010
Mr. Levi was a great teacher and great friend. He will be missed by me and my siblings who he also tortured in high school! :).
Chris Darouse
THS c/o 1997
October 4, 2010
R.I.P. Mr. Levi and may the Lord hold his family while in grief. Rosita Kenney
Robert Hall
September 28, 2010
Class of '86 PCHS
Fond memories: "If I say it three times, it's written stone" statements. While having someone in class read from the text, he would stop the person abruptly and say "uhh, pick it up uh, Chris..." LOL
What a shame there aren't podcasts of his lectures in existence for us to see. God bless him and his family.
Theresa
September 27, 2010
Happy birthday, Joe
You are one in a million! I miss seeing you buzz around the track, stopping to chat while we are playing tennis, and getting our balls that somehow make it over the fence. I still cannot believe that your radiance, wit, and humor will no longer be there. Now, I will look to the stars to find the brightest -and that will remind me of you. You made my days at Tabb some of the most memorable - although I can't say that I miss your quiet bell :).
I will have to find someone else to raz about Philly and share Clark bars with. Thanks for some of the best laughs, wisdom, and memories.
Erin Garcia (née Gingras)
September 25, 2010
Mr Levi was my favorite teacher at THS. I had him for History and AP Government. It was due to his awesome teaching that I decided to pursue a History degree. He was a wonderful teacher!
Allan Hoffman
September 25, 2010
Mr. Levi was a true source of encouragement and inspiration during my time at Peninsula Catholic. Mr. Levi through humor and constant challenge made History and Government come alive! I was so thankful for His instruction as I continued through college. I pray that the family will be comforted, knowing well that the legacy He leaves will affect literally hundreds of students for eternity!
Lori Ann and Jake Purnell
September 25, 2010
I don't even know where to begin... Joe saw Jake and I through so many tough times, and I can honestly say we loved him. I can't tell you the number of times I tried to get Joe to eat dinner at our house!! He was so stubborn. He'd tell me he was an old man stuck in his ways. He was always giving, but never comfortable receiving anything in return. I know he made the days at Tabb much more memorable for Jake. They use to go to school earlier and earlier just to keep the other from getting the best parking spot. What a character! In our last conversation I told Joe we loved him and that I'd never stop praying for him. I meant it. I find peace in knowing the day I arrive in heaven, Joe will be there with a smart aleck remark and a hug. The Purnell family loves you and misses you, Joe. Prayers of love go to the entire Levi family.
Love,
Lori Ann, Jake, Jacob and Joshua Purnell
Derek Morse
September 24, 2010
Mr. Levi was an amazing teacher, coach, and friend. I will definitely miss him for his wit and amazing stories. He may be gone, but he is most certainly not forgotten! Thank you Coach!
September 24, 2010
Mr. Levi will be greatly missed. He was an excellent teacher with an incredible sense of humor, and I will always remember him. I'm going to miss you "best friend"! -Lindsay Foley
September 23, 2010
"Brother Joe" is fondly remembered by a generation of mid-Sixties high schoolers at Augustinian Academy, Staten Island, NY as the proprietor of the "Pie Shop." There we were able to purchase all manner of snacks, most of which are likely not nutritionally acceptable in today's schools, but which got us through the day,as well as necessary school supplies. In addition, for no additional charge, we also got a dose of his marvelous, sardonic sense of humor. After my graduation in 1966, I joined Joe at the Augustinian Novitiate, and later at Villanova. No doubt, he was a great teacher, and an inspiration to his students. May God's blessings be with him for his life of service to others.
Wayne F. Green, Lancaster, PA
Mimi (Woodbury) O'Flynn
September 23, 2010
I had Mr. Levi in 1979/1980 at PC. He was a wonderful teacher but his humor is what could turn an otherwise stressful or boring day around. I'll never forget him telling us he couldn't believe he spent his weekend typing out songs for the jukebox (for our dances) with titles like "Boogie Oogie Oogie"!!! HAHA He cared about us learning but also wanted us to enjoy life! What a great lesson and a great man! He left a great legacy and will be missed! My condolences to his family and friends.
Brenna Levi
September 22, 2010
This is Brenna Levi, Joe's niece. Thank you so much for all of your support and kind words. My uncle was an amazing man who meant so much not only to my family but to his students and colleagues.
I miss him so much but reading all of your messages is comforting. I am going to print them so that my family can have them always.
I am a teacher myself and I always looked to him for guidance and support. It is so amazing to see the amount of students' lives he affected and those whom he inspired to teach or go into a government related field.
Thank you to everyone who came to the Celebration of Life memorial service at Tabb on Monday night. My family and I are so grateful to everyone who helped put it together.
A scholarship at Tabb has been set up in my uncle's name. Donations can be made to the York Foundation for Public Education, Inc. P.O. Box 1771 Yorktown, VA 23692
Thank you again for all of your thoughtful messages and your prayers.
Melinda & Roman Schenkkan
September 21, 2010
Joe, Even this morning I was walking in to THS and wishing I could see your smile, hear your laugh, and listen to one more funny joke before the students came in the room! I have missed you since you retired, and I will always think of you as a THS fixture! Come haunt us! :))) All my sympathy to the Levi family and thanks for sharing a great man with us!
September 21, 2010
Just heard the news from Coach Roper, and am still in a little bit of shock. Mr. Levi, you were an inspiration to myself and countless others. May you rest in peace.
Jonathan Tanaka
THS c/o 1997
Dr. Eric Williams, Superintendent
September 21, 2010
The Tabb Community and the York County School Division has truly lost a teacher who gave his all to his students and profession. The School Board and staff of the York County School Division join in extending heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends.
Amy Hartel
September 21, 2010
You will always have a special place in my heart. You helped me get through some tough times. May you rest in piece now. We love you.
Tonya Boyd
September 21, 2010
An inspiration to us all, he took everything in stride and didn't let anything worry him ever. What a man, laughter was his medicine and he shared it with everyone. Thought and prayers to the family of Mr. Levi
September 20, 2010
There are very few teachers that have made such a overwhelming difference in so many students lives, a real influence in their success. So many of us have been touched by your genuine love for teaching that u can rest easy as we spread your word& wisdom throughout the world. Tabb HS class of 96
Kate Buck
September 20, 2010
High school was a hard time for me and Mr. Levi's class was a refuge in the storm. His sense of humor and care for his students made things seem so much brighter. He will be missed.
Elizabeth Milne
September 20, 2010
Joe Levi was my mentor. When I staarted teaching at Tabb all of those years ago, he helped me probably more than he ever knew. My natural inclination as a teacher was to nurture students and use humor in the classroom, yet I was being told I was too nice, and I needed to "Toughen up". I was sitting at lunch with Joe one day, and true to his teacher form, he knew I was struggling. After a few bad jokes, he found a way to ask me, indirectly, what was wrong. When I told him, he laughed and said, "Ah, screw'em. Kids need teachers who love them. Do it your way and enjoy teaching!" Like with everyone else, he could always make me laugh- what a great gift. Levi family, I hope as these days go on, that you take his laughter, his jokes and his great big heart with you on your journey. Know that he will always be alive in the hearts of those of us who loved him. Joe, I will miss you very much, my friend.
Paula Swett
September 20, 2010
Gonna miss you my friend- your stupid jokes that i never laughed at- ok i laughed and the sponge bob songs. You stayed true to the end Joe- worrying about everyone but you. You always made us see the better side of things and Im gonna miss that. Thank you for your widsom, your friendship and your wit. Thank you for being Phils favorite teacher- and Im sorry he and the 06 boys tormented you so ... it was all out of love. Go well my friend. Always in our hearts. <3
September 20, 2010
Rest in peace Mr. Levi....our wonderful memories of you will live on forever...you were such a awesome teacher! Rose Smith (PCHS "80')
Kitty Richmond
September 20, 2010
What a wonderful colleague Joe was during the time we taught together at Tabb High! With subtle humor and a ready smile, he shared love and laughter, showing students he cared about them and their success. Joe Levi will be missed, but his joyful attitude and smile will echo through the coming years. Thanks for the memories, Joe!
Amy Jordan
September 20, 2010
Mr. Levi seemed to have had an impact on every student he taught. I don't think you could have had him for a teacher and not remembered him for life. I majored in Poli. Sci. and made a career of government and his teaching had an influence on the path I took. I feel privileged to have learned from him.
Myra Holt
September 19, 2010
Having taught with Joe at both Peninsula Catholic and Tabb High School, I know what an awesome history teacher he was. His students adored him because he made them feel good about themselves. If you were having a challenging day, you could count on Mr. Levi to make you forget your troubles. Joe, there are some comedians today that are thrilled you are no longer stealing their jokes.
I’ll miss you, my friend. May you finally be at peace.
Myra Holt
September 19, 2010
Having taught with Joe at both Peninsula Catholic and Tabb High School, I know what an awesome history teacher he was. His students adored him because he made them feel good about themselves. If you were having a challenging day, you could count on Mr. Levi to make you forget your troubles. Joe, there are some comedians today that are thrilled you are no longer stealing their jokes.
I’ll miss you, my friend. May you finally be at peace.
September 19, 2010
One of the best teachers that I ever had! I remember him saying, " If I say it 3 times it is written in stone." So for everything he wanted us to remember for test time he would say it 3 times - usually goofier sounding each time. I learned so much and he made Government interesting. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this difficult time. Mr. Levi was an awesome teacher; Mr. Levi was an awesome teacher; Mr. Levi was an awesome teacher.
Brenda Lampasso
Tabb High Class of 1987
September 18, 2010
One of the best teachers I ever had in K-12. Not only did he teach AP Government but he taught you about life in the process. One of the few teachers that I can honestly say that I remember most of what they taught. Truly one of the best and he will be missed.
Austin Brosk-class of 1998
September 18, 2010
Joe Levi was my 11th grade US History teacher at Tabb High. He was one of my favorite teachers and his humor always made what can be a dry subject enjoyable and memorable. My condolences to his family. He was a wonderful person who impacted the lives of so many at Tabb.
Kristin (Pouchot) McManus
September 18, 2010
Mr Levi was an excellent teacher who brought the classroom to life, especially in a class I hated - government! His jokes, his method of teaching, his stories he shared.. these made for the balance in a classroom to capture the student's attention! I wish more teachers could share the enthusiasm that Mr Levi did. I came back to THS on many an occassion after graduating (c/o 94), and insured that I always saw Mr Levi! One of my favorites. Many memories from senior year at THS. Rest in Peace Mr Levi.
Victoria Spencer
September 18, 2010
I had Levi for Government 2008-2009. He quickly became a favorite teacher and a true inspiration for what I want to be in a teacher myself. While my class was probably one of the most insane, we knew he adored us. He will always be missed!
paige estes
September 17, 2010
He taught me at Peninsula Catholic and at first I thought he was the scariest teacher I had ever had........But soon I became mesmerized by his teaching and I loved to hear him tell about History...There are not many teachers like him...He will be missed
Jennifer Gore-Pitt
September 17, 2010
I am so sorry your loss. Both of my parents taught with him and I have known him since I was in grade school hanging out with my parents on teacher work days. My dad as well passed after one year of retirement from Tabb and I truly know the pain your are going through. Not long enough of the "good life" as they all reffered to . ;)
He was a great man and will be missed.
Kari Tudor
September 17, 2010
Joe was a delightful colleague in my first years of teaching at Tabb. We ate lunch together every day and he always made me laugh. Thanks, Joe!
E.J. Scheuplein
September 17, 2010
I met Joe Levi when I was an 8th grade student at Peninsula Catholic High School. That was 1977. He made history come alive and I have loved it ever since. It is 33 years later and I am a 6th grade Social Studies teacher. Joe, if your listening, it is all your fault!! HA HA!!! In all seriousness, thank you for giving me the love of history that I now try to impart upon my students. Rest in Peace, Mr. Levi, you will be sorely missed!!!!!
Caroline Conway
September 17, 2010
I had Mr. Levi for 8th grade and 11th grade History at PC. Courtesy of those 2 classes I never again had to study for a history class in college. As a matter of fact, I got accused of cheating in American History at CNC...because I got the only perfect score in the class.
You will be missed by many...who had the privilege of being your student.
PCHS Class of '81
Lara Collins Hawthorne
September 17, 2010
Mr. Levi was TRULY my most favorite teacher during my senior year at THS. He made learning about government fun and enjoyable--that's a sign of a great teacher!! He will be missed!
THS 1987
Lara (Collins) Hawthorne
September 17, 2010
Mr. Levi was TRULY my favorite teacher during my senior year at THS '87. He made studying government fun and enjoyable!! Although he never swayed from his "no extra credit rule" and believe me, we tried!! He is one of the most memorable teachers I ever had...I will miss him.
THS 1987
Samantha Welch
September 17, 2010
I was in his class the first year that he taught at Tabb. He was an awesome teacher. He will be missed.
Crystal Rose Marvin
September 17, 2010
Words can not describe the impact Mr Levi had on my life. So tell us Mr Levi, where do the Russians keep their armies? Thank you for all the memories and the corny jokes. You will be missed dear friend.
Lynn Kenneally
September 17, 2010
Joe, My colleague and friend, I will always cherish our "catholic" talks, your friendship, wisdom and sense of humor! ( I liked your corny jokes!) You were already missed at Tabb but the inspiration you instilled in all students is your legacy and one not many can duplicate. Your family was blessed to have you, say hello to your mom for me. A role model and consumate educator in and outside the classroom, you are the best.
September 17, 2010
Mr. Levi will be missed! I had him for 8th grade history and home room. Even though I didn't really like history, he always made it interesting and I laughed quite a bit in class. I was front and center for some reason, so he could always see me smiling at his jokes:) I'm praying for his family.
Betty Boyles Evans
September 17, 2010
The thing I remember most about Mr. Levi from my senior year of 1987 is that he didn’t just expect everyone to succeed in his class he made it possible. No matter what was being studied he knew we students could be successful. It was good to know that he always thought you could do whatever he put in front of you and if you were unsure about it he took time to help you. Now working with special needs kids I am reminded of him. If I expect it and give it my all then they will all give what is expected. Hate to hear he is gone.
K S
September 17, 2010
Mr Levi was a presence to all that went to TABB for whatever the reason. He was always there to help in any manner that he could. He will be missed but now TABB has a wonderful angel watching over them. God Bless!
B Davis
September 17, 2010
What a wonderful teacher that I had so many years ago. Sending prayers and peace to your family. You will be remembered and missed by many.
Tami Somervold Nunn
September 17, 2010
Mr. Levi was an excellent teacher who earned the respect of his students. I always think of Mr. Levi when I hear the song "Philadelphia Freedom" and it makes me smile. PCHS class of 80
Kevin McNamara
September 17, 2010
Since 1980 I can still hear that Villanova class ring BANGING on the blackboard at PC. You made a difference. You are missed.
Robb Bohannon
September 17, 2010
I will always remember Mr. Levi. I was in his AP Government class at Tabb High, and now work as a lobbyist in Washington, DC. He and I almost always disagreed on politics philosophically, but I always respected him and enjoyed debating with him. I learned a lot from Mr. Levi that I use in my professional career. I am honored to have known him.
Lori Ramsey-Riesbeck
September 17, 2010
Mr. Levi, You will be missed by many. I have lots of fond memories and will cherish these forever. You were one of my favorite teachers I had at Tabb. RIP
eric linthwaite
September 17, 2010
i was talking about mr levi just the week before i learned the sad news - i'm a senior government teacher now too and was recollecting aloud w/ my new crop of students about the olde days (and assuring them that my jokes were far, far better :)
adios, senor levi! thanks for that memorable year!
Cheryl Keeling
September 17, 2010
Thank you for your years of service to the youth of York County. Your encouragement was a blessing to my child. May your family find comfort in their wonderful memories of times spent with you. God Bless
September 17, 2010
Mr. Levi was a great teacher. He told the worst, yet funniest, jokes! I am a Tabb graduate who became a teacher and hope that I can make an impact on students' lives the way that Mr. Levi did. He will be missed- but thinking of him will always bring a smile to my face! Thank you, Mr. Levi.
September 17, 2010
Mr. Levi was a great teacher. He told the worst jokes that were also the funniest! I am a Tabb graduate that became a teacher and can only hope that I make an impact on my students like Mr. Levi did. Thank you, Mr. Levi!
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