Obituary of Joseph Albert Bella

Joseph Albert Bella

Joseph (Joe) Albert Bella, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away suddenly on December 14th, 2023. He was born on November 20th, 1952, in Wrightstown, NJ, to Joseph N. Bella and Grace Bella (Mastrosimone).

Joe was a devoted husband to his wife, Cindie, with whom he shared 43 years of marriage. Together, they raised four children, daughters Lia (husband Michael Mayer), Marlena, Olivia, and their late son, Joey. Joey sadly lost his battle with cancer at the age of 5 years old. Joe and Cindie founded the Joey Bella Memorial Fund; an organization that raises funds for children in the Denville area who are struggling with severe and catastrophic illnesses. Because of this foundation, dozens of families have experienced financial relief when caring for their ill family member.

Joe's love for his family knew no bounds, and he cherished every moment spent with them.  Joe had a close-knit relationship with his siblings, and he was a loving brother to his sister Susan McFarland (husband Michael McFarland), and his brother Michael Bella (wife Debi Bella.)

Joe received a Bachelor's of Science Degree from St. Mary's College in Maryland, which laid the foundation for his successful career. He dedicated over 35 years of his life to the Passaic Valley Water Commission, where he served as Executive Director. His commitment and dedication to his work was evident in the positive impact he made within the organization and the community it served.

Outside of his professional life, as a recent retiree, Joe found joy in various hobbies that allowed him to connect with nature. He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and enjoyed activities such as woodworking and hiking.  Joe also had a special relationship with his dogs and grand dogs, who all identified him as “the lead of the pack”.  Whether it was crafting something beautiful out of wood or exploring the trails with his friends or dogs, Joe found solace and fulfillment in these pastimes. One of Joe's favorite ways to unwind was over a cup of coffee with friends. He cherished the time spent at local coffee shops, such as Boonton Coffee and SmartWorld Coffee, where he shared laughter and conversation with his dear companions.

Joe Bella will be remembered for his kind heart, warm smile, and unwavering love for his family. His sudden departure has left a void in the lives of those who knew him, but his memory will forever be cherished and celebrated. May he rest easy, knowing he was loved by so many.

Hours of public visitation for Joe are scheduled for Tuesday, December 19th from 4 to 8 PM at Norman Dean Home for Services 16 Righter Avenue Denville, NJ 07834 www.normandean.com.  A Mass of Christian Burial will occur the following day, December 20th at 10 AM at St. Mary’s Church, 15 Myers Ave, Denville.  He will be buried on the following day, next to his son Joey, in Huntingdon, PA.

Memorial donations can be made in Joe's name to the Joey Bella Memoria Fund in memory of Joe.

https://joeybella.org/donate

.