Obituaries/Services

Mr. Labita (Joe) was such a huge influence in my young life. He taught us math and managed our home room like a trooper at JHS 109! We became friends and kept in touch periodically. When MVBHS had a big reunion, I invited him; he offered to pick me up. I, then, found a fellow teacher whom he also picked up and took us both to the Reunion in NYC (he had someone to kvetch with while we 'kids' all schmoozed for the evening!) He even came to my father's wake in QV the year after I graduated 109! He was such a kind, loving man! So glad to hear he was around all his family for so very long! Sincere condolences to all the family. May he rest in paradise with his loving wife. So glad to hear he made it to 84 and got to be with his family for so long.

To the 5 children of Joe I offer my deepest condolences! Although I have never had the pleasure of meeting any of you I am certain that all of you are a chip off the block! I'm not certain but at least he was able to see his children get married. He was privileged to see them start their new lives. I apologize for so many tributes however my heart is overflowing with wonderful memories and thoughts of both Roe and Joe. They were definitely soul mates! All my love, Toinette Fazio Markowitz toinette7724@aol.com

I grew up with Doris (Marando- Osheroff) and who knew that I would get so close to her cousins: Rosemarie, Lorraine and Diane? Rocky and Rose were like my extra parents. I spent so many occasions with them including Lorraine's bridal shower and wedding! The entire Falcone and Labita Families share so much love with others. They even went out of their way to get me a job. I was fortunate enough to personally witness the bliss that both Lorraine and Mike as well as Roe and Joe shared! Unfortunately I am suffering with my eyesight at this time or I would be sitting at the funeral parlor with the rest of his family! May Joe rest in peace as he is continuing his journey to meet his beloved wife up in Heaven. Both Joe and Roe will always be missed and lovingly remembered forever. May Joe rest in peace on his journey to meet his beloved up in Heaven. All my love, Toinette Fazio Markowitz

Joe was an amazing man! He always had a smile and was willing to assist everyone. I can still remember the Halloween party that Joe and Ro gave at their home in Staten Island. It was a privilege to spend time with either one of them. I remember how excited his wife was describing her headpiece to my Mom and I. She was ecstatic to be marrying her love! I will always consider myself a family member of both the Parrelli and Labita Families. I believe that these 2 wonderful people were exactly alike and so grateful to have found their soul mates! Their children had the opportunity to witness what "love " is all about! They will remain a special part of my heart forever. With love and admiration, Toinette Fazio Markowitz They are finally reunited. Xoxo

I may not have had the privilege of getting to know Mr. Labita as intimately as many of you did, but in every interaction I had with him, he radiated kindness, decency, and warmth. My understanding of him deepened through my friendship with his son, Joe, who bears his name. Joe is incredibly kind-hearted, always eager to provide love, support, and assistance. He honors this father by upholding the family name with great distinction and respect. My condolences. Rest in Peace

Uncle Joe was my favorite uncles and one of the coolest guys I knew! When my sister and I were younger Uncle Joe came over and we all made pizzas together. My mom wasn't allowed to make the dough, only Uncle Joe could, she was in charge of pizza toppings only. As we're making pizzas I got yelled at by Uncle Joe because I was kneading it too much and I was going to ruin the pizza by doing that. He tried to salvage my dough and fix it onto the pan but then I didn't sauce the dough appropriately. Uncle Joe was so nervous the pizzas was going to taste bad and I wouldn't know how good his pizza really was! I love you so much Uncle Joe and I will miss you for forever! Thank you for making such a positive impact on my life. Your legacy will never be forgotten.

Michael & I would like to offer our sincere condolences to Kristine & Joseph praying for both you! God Bless

I met Joe II only a handful of times throughout my friendship with his son, Joe III, but every meeting was a memorable one. Being at his house always felt like being home in with my family. He had an aura about him that draws you closer and get your guard down (not that you ever needed to have your guard up around him, unless you were sensitive to good ol fashioned ribbing). He left an impression on me and will be missed!