Joseph T Hemberger

Joseph Hemberger, 88, passed away peacefully at home on August 8, 2025. Joe was a lifelong resident of Port Monmouth, NJ and a communicant of Saint Mary's Mother of God Church.

Joe graduated from Leonardo High School in 1955 and followed in his family's footsteps by entering the printing profession. At the young age of 23, following the unexpected passing of his father, Joe became head of the household. He lovingly cared for his mother for 33 years until her passing in 1993-a testament to his lifelong devotion to caring for others.

Joe was always ready to lend a helping hand. Whether supporting his family in caring for his brother with Parkinson's disease, assisting with a move, helping with a project, or simply being there when needed, Joe's kindness and dependability were constants in the lives of those who knew him.

Joe was deeply loved by family and friends. He was quick to smile and laugh, and when times were difficult, he would offer comfort with his favorite saying: "It is what it is." He had a sharp mind and a gift for conversation, able to speak thoughtfully on almost any subject. Time spent with family and friends was especially meaningful to him.

Joe cherished life's simple joys. He loved gardening, fishing, and walking his dog along the beach. He had a lifelong love for dogs-particularly German Shepherds-and cared for five of them over the years. His current dog Phoenix, a Husky mix rescue, provided him comfort and companionship in his golden years.

He was predeceased by his parents, William and Margaret Hemberger; his brothers, William, Robert, and Frank; and his nephew, Frank Jr.

Joe is survived by his nieces, Renee Wehnke (Carl) and Mary Movelle (Rich); and his nephews, Bill Hemberger (Maria), Gary Hemberger (Barbara), and Paul Hemberger as well as many beloved grand- and great-grand nieces and nephews and dear friends.

He will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and the quiet strength with which he supported those around him.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Seth from The Key Agency and Heather and Maria from Hackensack Meridian for the compassionate care and comfort they provided to Joe in his final weeks.

A Funeral Mass will be offered on Wednesday, August 13th at 10:00 a.m. at Mary Mother of God Church, 19 Cherry Tree Farm Rd., Middletown. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Joe's name to the Tinton Falls Humane Society.