Edward Joseph Driza

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Edward Joseph Driza, who left us peacefully on the morning of January 19, 2025, at Arcadia at Limerick Pointe Memory Care in Limerick, PA. Ed was 81 years old. Even as his health declined in his later years, he remained a warm, gentle,and approachable presence, always greeting others with a smile, a wave, or a salute that reflected his kind and neighborly nature.
Born on September 11, 1943, 'Eddie' was the cherished son of Emma Linda (DeGregoriis) Driza and Stanley Driza. He grew up in Southwest Philadelphia and graduated from West Catholic High School for Boys in 1961. Ed proudly served in the U.S. Navy, where he received training in electronics and served at various naval bases, including San Diego, Great Lakes, and Corpus Christi. He was honorably discharged in 1966, having completed his service with distinction.
Following his time in the Navy, Ed enjoyed a long and successful career with the Defense
Contract Management Agency (DCMA) at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. Dedicated to self- improvement, Ed attended night classes and earned an Associate's degree from Ursinus College.
In 1967, Ed met the love of his life, Joanne Marie (Steck) Driza. They were married in 1969 at St. Francis of Assisi in Norristown, PA, beginning a 56-year journey of love and devotion. Together, they raised two daughters, Jennifer and Jaclyn, and were blessed with five grandchildren, whom Ed adored.
Ed was a passionate lover of history, particularly American history, and he never missed an opportunity to watch his beloved Philadelphia sports teams-especially the Phillies and Flyers. Alongside Joanne, Ed had a deep appreciation for travel, and after retirement, they embarked on adventures to see the world and fulfill their shared dreams.
Ed was preceded in death by his father, Stanley Driza, his mother, Emma Linda (DeGregoriis) Driza, and his brother, Stanley Driza. He is survived by his wife Joanne, daughters Jennifer Sutera and Jaclyn Hladio, sisters Barbara Ponte and Mariann Sergi, and a host of nieces, nephews, and five adoring grandchildren: Salvatore, Dominick, Julianna, Daniel, and Annalise.
In accordance with Ed's wishes, his remains will be cremated, and his ashes will be spread over the ocean-his final tribute to the Navy he loved so dearly.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Ed's memory to the
Dementia Society of America www.DementiaSociety.org/donate or donate by mail to
Dementia Society of America PO Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901 to support care for those affected by dementia. Arrangements are being handled by the Campbell - Ennis - Klotzbach Funeral Home, Inc. Condolences may be offered online at www.PhoenixvilleFuneralHome.com.