Joseph J. Verbaro Jr.

Obituary of Joseph J. Verbaro, Jr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joseph J. Verbaro, Jr., who left us peacefully on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Morristown Medical Center after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 83 years old.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Janice Verbaro (née Zuchowski); two sons, Joseph Verbaro III and his wife Julie & Michael Verbaro and his wife Kathy; five grandchildren, Joseph Verbaro IV, Lindsey Verbaro, Christopher Verbaro, Samuel Verbaro & Jack Verbaro; one sister, Ann Stewart; several extended family members and countless dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Joe was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Paul Stewart.

Joe was a devoted husband, loving father and cherished grandfather, whose life was a testament to kindness and service. He dedicated himself to uplifting those around him, embodying the qualities of compassion and humility that made him a beloved figure in his family and community.

Born and raised in Moorestown, NJ, Joe was the son of the late Jospeh C. and Philomena Verbaro. After graduating from high school, Joe enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he developed a deep sense of duty and honor that would guide him throughout his life. Joe pursued higher education at Glassboro State College, where he met the love of his life, Janice Verbaro. They married soon after college, beginning a beautiful journey together.

The couple first lived in Clark, NJ, before settling in Madison where they raised their two sons, Joseph Verbaro III and Michael Verbaro. Joe was a dedicated father, instilling in his sons the values of hard work, integrity and compassion. He took immense pride in his role as a father and was especially devoted to his grandchildren, attending their sporting events and marching band competitions, cheering them on with unwavering enthusiasm.

Joe began his professional career as a science teacher at Governor Livingston High School in Berkeley Heights, where he also coached football, sharing his passion for the sport with young athletes. His career later transitioned into finance, where he served as a vice president and relationship manager at various local banks. Joe was highly respected in his field, known for his integrity, knowledge and the trust he built with clients and colleagues alike.

A true pillar of the Madison community, Joe was deeply committed to making a difference. He coached youth football and baseball, and became known as the "Voice of the Madison Dodgers" as a sports announcer. His leadership extended to serving as a councilman, where he was skilled at listening to differing perspectives and fostering resolutions that benefited the community.

Joe's faith was a cornerstone of his life. A devoted member of St. Vincent Martyr Church, he served as a trustee, on the finance committee and as a lector during Masses. He cherished the long-lasting friendships he formed within the parish and gave generously of his time and heart to support St. Vincent's.

In his later years, Joe found fulfillment as a funeral assistant at Madison Memorial Home, where his natural compassion provided comfort to families during their most difficult times. His gentle presence and kind demeanor made a profound impact, helping to ease the burdens of those in grief.

An avid golfer, Joe enjoyed spending time on the course at the Madison Golf Club, where he was a longtime member and served as president. His love for the game was matched only by his love for his family and friends.

In his final days, Joe faced his illness with the same courage and grace that defined his life. He was surrounded by the love of his family, who will forever cherish the memories they created together.

Rest in peace, dear Joe. Your light will continue to shine in the hearts of those you loved and who loved you in return.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend the visitation for Joe to be held on Friday, October 3, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Madison Memorial Home, 159 Main Street, Madison.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Joe on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Vincent Martyr Church, 26 Green Village Road, Madison. For those who wish to attend the mass virtually, please visit www.svmnj.org/livestream-mass

Interment with military honors will immediately follow at St. Vincent's Cemetery, Madison.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Joe's memory to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105.