Joseph Onofrio Migliara

Joseph Onofrio Migliara, known to family and friends as Joe, Grandpa, or Grandpa Jo-Jo, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026 in Long Branch at the age of 85, of natural causes. Born on February 14, 1941 in Newark, he lived a life marked by devotion to his family, faith, country, and the simple pleasures that brought him joy.

Joe was the beloved son of the late Joseph Migliara, Sr. and the late Rose Migliara. He was also predeceased by his brother, Louis Migliara. He is survived by his loving sister, Stephanie Long, her husband, Larry Long, and his sister-in-law Christine Migliara. He leaves behind his cherished children, Lori Conte and her husband, Rico Conte, Paul Joseph Migliara and his wife, Danielle Migliara, and Robert Migliara and his fiancée, Cathy Trapani Wisker. Joe was a proud and devoted grandfather to AJ, Ava, Nicco, Nicole, Angelica, Kevin, and Lexi, each of whom brought great happiness to his life. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Jason, Becky, Nicole, Rosie, and Regina, who will remember him with love and affection.

Joe grew up in Newark and carried the values of his upbringing throughout his life. He graduated from Barringer High School in 1959. After high school, he answered the call to serve his country honorably in the US Army; a role that reflected his sense of duty and commitment. Following his military service, he worked for Local 1262, where he was respected for his strong work ethic and reliability.

Faith was an important part of Joe’s life. He was a Catholic and lived his beliefs through the way he treated others; with kindness, humility, and sincerity. He was also a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus, an affiliation that reflected both his faith and his dedication to service and fellowship. These commitments were a meaningful part of who he was and remained with him throughout his life.

Joe had many interests that gave him enjoyment over the years. He loved American history, especially the Civil War, and could spend hours reflecting on the people and events that shaped the nation. He also enjoyed old movies, which brought back memories of another era, and Doo-Wop music, whose timeless sound remained close to his heart. One of his favorite pastimes was driving through the old neighborhood, where he could revisit familiar streets and memories from earlier days. Those drives were often made even better by stopping at Dickie Dees, Calandra's, and Tony’s Hot Dogs, places that held special meaning for him and added simple pleasure to his routines. He enjoyed vacations at the Jersey shore, and later at Lake George with large groups of family & friends. He also maintained a complicated love\hate relationship with both the New York Giants and New York Yankees.

Those who knew Joe will remember a man who appreciated family, tradition, and the connections that endure across generations. He was steady, warm, and deeply rooted in the life he built. He found joy in being surrounded by loved ones and in sharing stories, memories, and laughter. His presence will be missed at family gatherings, where his voice, his humor, and his familiar ways brought comfort and continuity.

Joe’s family will forever treasure the love he gave and the example he set. His life was one of service, loyalty, and devotion, and his memory will remain a blessing to all who knew him. Though he has departed this life, the values he lived by and the love he shared will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 19, 2026 from 2-6 pm at the Damiano Funeral Home in Long Branch. Funeral, Monday; 9:30 am at the funeral home with a 10:30 am Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at St. Michael's Church in West End. Long Branch. Entombment with Military Honors will follow at Woodbine Mausoleum in Oceanport. The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link above.

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