Joseph Richard Gherardi

Joseph R. Gherardi

*November 11, 1955 - June 25, 2025*

Joseph R "Joe" Gherardi passed away peacefully at home in Hove, England, on June 25, 2025, at the age of 69, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on November 11, 1955, in Mt. Vernon, New York, to Joseph and Agnes Lang Gherardi, Joe grew up in Pelham, NY where he attended St. Catharine's Elementary School and Pelham Memorial High School. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America. He went on to earn his bachelor's degree in history from The College of the Holy Cross Worcester, MA, graduating in 1978.

Though he made England his home for more than 30 years, Joe always considered himself a New Yorker at heart. His distinctive accent, tall stature, fabulous hair, and radiant smile made a lasting impression on everyone he met. Above all, Joe cared deeply for his community and the people in his life.

In 1991, Joe moved to London to manage projects during the building of Canary Wharf. There he met his first wife, Kathy Killian, and in April 1993 they welcomed their son, Matthew. That same year, while completing his "Sloan 25" studies at the London Business School, Joe made the decision to settle in England permanently and later became a British citizen.

Joe's sobriety and commitment to Alcoholics Anonymous were the foundation of his adult life, guiding him for more than 44 years. Anyone who heard Joe speak at a meeting knew his deep understanding of-and devotion to-living "one day at a time."

Professionally, Joe became a highly respected management consultant, leading major projects in the UK and abroad. He had a rare gift for bringing out the best in others, guiding colleagues with warmth and encouragement, never making anyone feel they had let him down.

In late 2021, Joe met Lana Smith, and their relationship blossomed. They moved from St. Albans to Hove in July 2023, and Joe retired later that year. In early 2024, they spent nearly two months in South Africa. In October 2024 Joe was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. Even after his diagnosis, Joe faced each day with grace, humor, and positivity.

In February 2025, he and Lana enjoyed a joyful holiday in Tenerife, and on April 23, 2025, they celebrated their dream wedding, surrounded by family and friends.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife Lana, his son Matthew, sisters Barbara Piazza and Patricia Berry, nieces and nephews, Emma, Hayley and Spencer Berry, and countless friends across the globe. He will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and unwavering optimism. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the memories he created.

Donations can be made in Joseph's name to Pancreatic Cancer UK

https://togetherinmemory.pancreaticcancer.org.uk/In-Memory/Joseph-Gherardi#