Joseph J. "Joe" Caiola

Joseph "Joe" J. Caiola, 70, of Rome, entered into eternal rest on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at his home, surrounded by love. Born on November 15, 1954, in Herkimer, NY, Joe was the son of Getina (Cartagirone) Caiola and the late Peter E. Caiola. On June 14, 1975, he married his childhood sweetheart and the love of his life, Barbara A. McGuinness, at St. Agnes Church in Utica. Their marriage was a beautiful example of devotion and love until Barbara's passing in 2010. Joe now rejoins her in Heaven, where their bond continues. A proud Navy veteran, Joe faithfully served his country for more than 24 years. He retired on December 7, 1999, as a Petty Officer First Class. As a Seabee, Joe was attached to Beachmaster Unit (BMU) 1. This unit was best known for organizing amphibious landing operations once the forces landed on the beach. After his military career, Joe could often be found in his garage, happily working on motors and putting his Navy mechanic training to use. He had a true passion for cars, especially Jeeps, and enjoyed attending car shows. Joe also had a love for military history and took pride in carefully building model airplanes, many of which decorated his daughters' childhood bedrooms. Family was at the heart of everything Joe did. He treasured camping and boating trips with his daughters, never missed a chance to share ice cream with them and loved gathering for family functions filled with food and laughter. He especially enjoyed his son-in-law's cooking. Later in life, his grandchildren became his pride and joy, each one held a special place in his heart. Joe will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, and the way he welcomed everyone with open arms. His big heart, genuine personality, and love for others left an imprint on all who knew him. Joe is survived by his daughters, Michelle Potaczala (Teddy) and Melissa Caiola (Steven Smothers); his beloved mother, Getina Caiola; his siblings, Peter Caiola (Gail), Liz Grasso (Mark), and Mary LaBella (Joey); and his cherished grandchildren, Thad, AJ, and Gianna, who brought immeasurable joy to his life. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. Besides his father, Joe was predeceased by his wife Barbara McGuinness Caiola. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Thursday, August 21, from 4 to 6 P.M. at McGrath, Myslinski, Kowalczyk & Nunn Funeral Directors, 470 French Road, Utica. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, August 22, at 10:30 A.M. at Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Lourdes Campus, 2222 Genesee St., Utica. Burial with full military honors will follow at St. Agnes Cemetery, Utica. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Joe's memory to the Wounded Warrior Project. Contributions may be offered at the funeral home during calling hours or online at support.woundedwarriorproject.org. Envelopes will be available. Messages of sympathy at mmknfd.com