Brigadier General Joseph B. DiBartolomeo

Joseph Bernardino DiBartolomeo, 74, of Weirton, WV, passed away on Friday, January 31, 2025 after a 15-year battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering dedication, loyalty, and profound commitment to his family, his country, and his heritage.
Born in Steubenville, Ohio on October 12, 1950, Joseph was a son of Osvaldo and Gina Guidone DiBartolomeo.
Joe's life was defined by his humility, fierce independence, and an unwavering pride in his Italian heritage. He found immense joy in hosting family and friends at his home. His commitment to family was matched only by his pride in seeing his children follow in his military footsteps, a testament to his legacy of service and honor.
A graduate of Weir High School, Joe's commitment to education was evident, having earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, a master's in professional accounting, and a Juris Doctorate, all from West Virginia University. He also attended the University of Notre Dame and prestigious programs such as the Army Strategic Leadership Development Course and the National Defense University's CAPSTONE.
As an accountant for Deloitte & Touche, an attorney or the City Manager of Weirton and Follansbee, WV, Joe was a man who lived by the principles of hard work, and integrity. His humility and service were often understated, yet his actions spoke volumes about the kind of person he was.
A man of high integrity and patriotism, Joe served his country with distinction in the United States Marine Corp, the United States Army and Army National Guard. His military career spanned decades, culminating in his promotion to Brigadier General. As the Deputy Commanding General (Reserve Component) for Special Forces Command-Airborne at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Joe was entrusted with advising the Commanding General on all Army National Guard matters, ensuring the integration of the Guard into key operational plans. His service took him to critical assignments around the world, including his role as Deputy Chief, Office of Defense Representative-Pakistan, and his leadership in Special Operations Command in Europe and Bosnia.
Joe was known for his selflessness and decision to not take a promotion at the risk of his soldiers' safety-an act that exemplified his dedication to those he served with. He was a leader who believed in doing what was right, not what was easy. His legacy as a soldier is honored with numerous awards, including the Legion of Merit, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and the Special Forces Tab, among many others.
Most of all, Joe was a true family man who led his loved ones with kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion. He cherished his wife, Maria, he built a life filled with love and laughter by her side. As a father, he guided his children with wisdom and encouragement, always putting their happiness and success above all else. His greatest joy was watching them grow, embracing his role as a proud grandfather with warmth and affection.
Locally, Joe was a member of Saint Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church, and the ISDA- Weirtonian Lodge.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his father-in-law, Armando D'Amico.
He will be remembered with love by his wife, Maria D'Amico DiBartolomeo, whom he married on October 29, 1988; his daughter and son-in-law, Dr. Christina and Dr. Ben Boswell, and their daughter, Ariana and son, Alexander Joseph due in March of 2025; his son and daughter-in-law, Joseph DiBartolomeo and Danielle, along with their daughter, Lola Jo; his brother, Carlo; Maria's family, Adalgisa D'Amico, Joseph (Sandy) D'Amico Michael (Michelle) D'Amico, and Michele (Rocky) Bragg; special cousins, Maryann Atwell, Fernanda Capaldi, Roseann D'Amico and Garen and Deana DiBartolomeo; many nieces, nephews and friends.
Joe's legacy of love and dedication will continue to live on through his family he nurtured and the values he instilled in them
Joe's family will honor his wish for family private services. He will be laid to rest at Saint Paul's Cemetery with military honors.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Share tributes with his family at www.grecohertnick.com