Joseph Cioffi

Dr. Joseph Anthony "Joe" Cioffi, 80, passed away on June 12, 2025, in Englewood, New Jersey. Born on June 27, 1944, in Newark, New Jersey, Joe dedicated his life to education, mentorship, and the pursuit of excellence both in the classroom and on the golf course.

Joe's academic journey began at Jersey City State University in Jersey City, New Jersey, where he earned both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Education. He continued to expand his expertise with certifications in Educational Leadership and as a Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant from Montclair State University. His commitment to lifelong learning culminated in earning a Doctor of Education (EdD) from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Joe began his career as a classroom teacher in Newark before moving to the Bergenfield School system where he rose through the educational ranks with unwavering dedication. He served on the Child-Study Team, advocating for classified students and ensuring they had every opportunity to succeed. His passion for education extended beyond traditional classrooms-he was also the Director of the Bergenfield Adult School and coached various sports programs including PAL baseball and basketball and golf in the Adult School. As an Assistant Coach for Bergenfield High School Football, he helped lead the team to a New Jersey State Championship victory.

After retiring from education, Joe channeled his energy into his greatest personal passion: golf. A devoted golfer through and through, he immersed himself in every aspect of the game-from reading golf books to traveling for rounds at new courses. He proudly scored two holes-in-one during his golfing career and became co-owner of Supreme Golf in Paramus, New Jersey.

Joe was known by those around him as reliable and caring-a man who consistently tried to help others, especially his students and family. Joe's sense of humor and perfectly timed moments of levity could lighten any room. He had a gift for making people smile without ever making light of what mattered. His legacy is one of service, compassion, and quiet strength.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Maria De Maggio Cioffi, his daughter, Tara Cioffi Dean and her husband Daniel; three grandsons: Patrick Joseph, Nolan Stephan, and Connor Logan; his sister Madeline Cioffi Fennelly and her husband Arthur Fennelly; his niece and Goddaughter Colleen Fennelly and his niece Larissa Cocuzza along with her husband and son. He is also survived by many cousins and their families as well as in-laws including Eva and Bob Gallione and their children RJ and Maria and their families and Frank and Carolyn De Maggio.

He was predeceased by his parents, Margaret Benedetto Cioffi and Frank Cioffi.

May Dr. Joseph Anthony Cioffi's memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire those whose lives he touched through education and mentorship.

A Funeral Mass will be held on June 30, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St John's Roman Catholic Church 29 North Washington Avenue Bergenfield, New Jersey.

Donations in his memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital for Children with Cancer.