Obituary of Joseph Luis Xavier
Joseph Xavier, born Jose Luis Cardosa Xavier, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 22, 2025 at the age of 79.
Born on July 11, 1945, in Guimarães, Portugal, Joe—affectionately known as “Juca” to his family—was the third oldest of six boys born to Jose Duarte Xavier and Maria Cardosa.
In 1952, driven by hope for a better life, the family made the difficult decision to immigrate to America from Portugal. After six years of separation, the family was finally reunited in Mamaroneck, New York in 1958.
In 1966, following the path set by his older brothers, Joe enlisted in the United States Army. He served honorably in Vietnam, demonstrating courage and dedication during the Tet Offensive of 1968. After returning from deployment, he became an instructor in the U.S. Signal Corps at the U.S. Electronics Command Center at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. In 1970, Joe proudly became a naturalized U.S. citizen—a milestone he cherished for the rest of his life.
During his time at Fort Monmouth, Joe met Agnes Dellapietro, a civilian employee on base. They married in 1970, and together welcomed two sons, Michael and Daniel. Though their marriage ended in 1980, they remained united in their love for their children.
In the early 1980s, Joe met Annemarie Tepedino, beginning a meaningful new chapter. They married in 1982, and Joe happily and wholeheartedly embraced Annemarie’s daughter, Nicole—finding great joy in becoming a father to a daughter. Together, Joe and Annemarie went on to have two more sons, Joseph and John. Although their marriage ended in 1998, the family they built together remained a central part of Joe’s heart and identity.
Joe’s fascination with electronics, which began early on, became the foundation for his post-military career. He spent many years working for Multitone Electronics, a company at the forefront of wireless pager technology.
Outside of work, Joe was known as the man who could fix anything for anyone—neighbors, friends, or family. Whether it was a broken radio, a faulty appliance, or a car that wouldn’t start, Joe was always there to lend his time and expertise—always refusing payment.
Perhaps Joe’s greatest joy in his later years was his role as “Vuvú” to his eight granddaughters: Brianna, Katelyn, Alexis, Casey, Emily, Zoey, Layla, and Olivia. Nothing made him happier than being surrounded by their laughter. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his children: Michael, Daniel (and his wife, Heather Xavier), Joseph (and his wife, Lauren Xavier), and John, as well as his eight granddaughters.
All arrangements were private and under the direction of the Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, Freehold Township.