Joseph P. Neagle

1948 - 2025

Joseph P. Neagle
February 20, 1948 ~ April 20, 2025
Joseph P. Neagle, age 77, passed away peacefully at home on April 20, 2025. Born in New Haven, Connecticut, on February 20, 1948, Joe was the beloved son of the late Richard J. and Marguerite G. Neagle.
Joe grew up in West Haven and was part of the West Haven public school system, receiving special education services from 1953 to 1963. At the age of 16, due to the recommendations of the time, Joe was placed in the Mansfield Training School, which cared for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Following its closure, Joe lived in a variety of care facilities, eventually spending thirty-seven years at Marshall Lane Nursing Home in Derby. When Marshall Lane closed, Joe found a new home in a community group residence in Naugatuck, where he lived alongside two other gentlemen and received compassionate care until his passing.
Though his life was marked by challenges, Joe faced them with a quiet strength and a deep appreciation for life's simple joys. He especially loved chocolate ice cream, cheering on his favorite teams, the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots, and spending Sundays with family. His parents and brothers made sure he was always surrounded by love, visiting regularly and continuing their support throughout his life.
Joe was predeceased by his brother, Christopher Neagle, and his infant niece Tara. He is survived by his devoted brothers, Richard (Catherine) Neagle Jr. of Middleboro, MA, and Gregory (Lynne Tourville) Neagle of New Haven, CT; nephews Richard Neagle and Joseph Neagle of New Haven, CT, and Matthew Neagle of Middleboro, MA; and niece Keri Saxton and her daughter Olivia of New Haven, CT.
The Neagle family extends heartfelt thanks to the State of Connecticut Department of Social Services for their decades of care and advocacy. They are especially grateful to the dedicated staff of the Naugatuck group home, whose kindness and patience enriched Joe's final years.
A special acknowledgment goes to Ms. Veronica Curry, supervisor of the group home, whose expert and loving care provided Joe with dignity, safety, and comfort. Her unwavering compassion and medical insight allowed Joe to live longer and with a better quality of life. The family deeply appreciates her selfless dedication.
Joe lived a life marked by perseverance and quiet courage. Despite significant disabilities, he never gave up. His family, led by his parents and later by his brothers, fought beside him for respectful, compassionate care. Joe was a special soul who taught those around him the true meaning of dignity, strength, and love.
He is now at peace, free of the challenges he so bravely endured. Welcome to Heaven, Joe.
You have earned your place. Job well done. Say hello to Mom, Dad, Chris, and Sonya.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at Keenan Funeral Home, 238 Elm Street, West Haven, on Thursday, April 24, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. A graveside service will be held on Friday, April 25, at St. Lawrence Cemetery, 280 Derby Ave., West Haven, at 10 a.m.