Joe Chaves, 67, of Howell passed away at home on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 surrounded by his family.  Joe was born in Couto de Ervededo, Portugal, moved to Kearny, NJ at the age of 14, and lived in Newark before he settled in Howell in 2023.  He was a skilled carpenter prior to retiring after 40 plus years in the industry.  Joe was a recreationalist who could be found fishing, golfing or bike riding.  He enjoyed listening to classic rock and hosting Easter gatherings with his loved ones and upholding traditions. 

Joe was predeceased by his parents, Manuel and Laurinda Chaves.  He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Rosalia Chaves; children, Claudio and his wife, Jessica and Silvio and his wife, Marcella; grandchildren, Zackary, Wesley, Silas and Maximo; siblings, Madalena Lourenco and her husband, Simon, Manuel Chaves and his wife, Fernanda, and Henry Chaves and his wife, Aurora; and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be held at the Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, 100 Elton-Adelphia Road (Route 524), Freehold Township on Sunday, December 14, 2025 from 2:00 to 5:45 PM with a brief prayer service to begin at 5:45 PM.  Inurnment will take place on Friday, December 19, 2025 at 11:00 AM in Marlboro Memorial Cemetery, 361 Highway 79, Marlboro.  For those who desire, memorial contributions in Joe’s name may be made to the American Lung Society, 1600 Route 22 East, Union, NJ 07083. For information, directions or to leave condolence messages for the family, visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com