Joseph Charles Messina Jr.

Joseph Charles Messina Jr., (73) of Monson, Massachusetts passed peacefully August 8, 2021 surrounded by his three sons, Joseph Charles Messina III, Joshua Michael Messina, and Jason William Messina.



Joseph was born in Ware, MA to the late Joseph and Marie Messina on April 23, 1948.



In 1968 Joseph left Monson for Parris Island on his journey to become a United States Marine, an even that guided the remainder of his life. As proud as Joseph was of his own accomplishment, he took great pride when his son Joseph and later his grandson Jadon followed in his footsteps in becoming Marines. After being honorably discharged from the Marine Corps, Joseph worked at Milton Bradley and Sullivan’s Trucking before landing at the United States Post Office. Joseph began his career at the Post Office loading and unloading bags of mail and later became a letter carrier. Joseph retired from the Post Office after 34 years of service, the majority of which was spent delivering mail out of the Indian Orchard branch.



After Joseph retired from the United States Post Office, he filled his time by carrying on his love for the Marine Corps by being active in the Marine Corps League at the local and national level, at his peak holding the office of National Assistant Vice Commandant as well as the National Seat for the New England Division. Joseph took great pride in his service to the Marine Corps League and especially his planning of the yearly convention for the New England Marine Corps League over the past several years. Joseph was recognized for his service and devotion to the Marine Corps League earning the distinction of Marine of the Year in 2004, the Distinguished Service Award, and the Distinguished Citizen Award. In addition to the regular Marine Corps League operations, Joseph found great enjoyment with the Military Order of the Devil Dogs.



In addition to his three sons, Joseph leaves behind his six grandchildren: Alexis (25), Myranda (23), Joseph IV (23), Jadon (20), Marissa (19), and Jacob (3). Joseph is also survived by his younger sister, Nancy, and brother James.



Joseph’s joy with his activity in the Marine Corps League and the NRA was only trumped by his love for his family. Joseph forever looked forward to the visits and time he was able to spend with his sons and grandchildren and will be looking down on them with joy and love for the rest of their years.



Family and friends are invited to a celebration of the life of Joseph to be held with visiting hour on Sunday, August 15, 2021 from 2 pm to 5 pm and continue on Monday, August 16, 2021 at 10 am at the Beers and Story Funeral Home, 1475 North Main Street, Palmer, Massachusetts.
Please reference www.beersandstory.com Burial will follow with military honors at the Hillcrest Cemetery, 32 Wilbraham Road, Monson, Massachusetts.



In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joseph’s memory to the Department of Massachusetts Marine Corps League, care of: Brian Brooks, 100 Fox Run Road, Hinsdale, NH 03451.



Semper Fi!