Joseph Ajello

Joseph Ajello, 83, of Old Bridge, New Jersey, passed away on February 8, 2026.

Born on August 11, 1942, in Staten Island, New York, to parents Joseph, Sr. and Anna Ajello, Joseph grew up in the Mariners Harbor neighborhood, where he built the strong roots and values that guided him throughout his life.

Joseph graduated from Port Richmond High School and proudly served his country by joining the United States Navy (7/21/1960-8/2/1963)shortly after graduation. His naval service brought him to Virginia, and he was honored to be part of the Cuban Blockade, an experience that remained a source of pride throughout his life.

After completing his military service, Joseph met and married the love of his life, Paula. Together, they shared 59 years of marriage filled with love, partnership, and unwavering devotion. In the early 1970s, Joseph and Paula relocated to Old Bridge, New Jersey, where they raised their cherished children, son Brian and daughter Kerri, and created a home filled with warmth and tradition.

Joseph was deeply committed to service and community. He was a proud member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW Post 7508 & 9468), a recipient of the Boy Scouts of America's two highest adult honors, the Silver Beaver Award and the prestigious Wood Badge leadership training honor. He served as past treasurer of AARP as well as a past treasure for the USS Furse (DDR-882) Reunion. He was a parishioner of St. Ambrose Church and the boy scout leader of the parishes troop 129. He served the boy scouts of America for 35 years.

An avid outdoorsman, Joseph found joy in camping, gardening, and spending time in nature. He had a lifelong passion for history, was remarkably skilled with computers, and enjoyed traveling and exploring new places. He Had a love of Sports especially the NY Yankees His curiosity, intelligence, and generosity of spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Joseph will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, loyal friend, and proud veteran whose life was defined by service, integrity, and love for his family. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Joseph is predeceased by his cherished children Brian and Kerri.

Joseph is survived by his beloved wife Paula, his granddaughter Danya Stroumtsos, his adoring great-granddaughter Ashlynne Douches, and by his brother Edward and his wife Arlene and his nephews and nieces along with many good friends.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, February 15 from 4:00 - 8:00pm at Michael Hegarty and John Vincent Scalia Home for Funerals located at 3377 US Highway 9, Old Bridge, NJ 00857.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30am on Monday, February 16, 2026 at St. Ambrose Church located at 81 Throckmorton Lane, Old Bridge, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to make a donation in Joseph's name to Tunnels to Towers. www.t2t.org/donate