Joseph (Joe) Sansotta, 78, of Berkeley Twp. passed away Friday, November 29, 2024, at Community Medical Center, Toms River.  Joe was fortunate to beat 2 types of cancer (Lung & Bladder) but has made his way to the afterlife. 

 

Born in Calabria, Italy, Joe came to the United States in 1960 and settled in Brooklyn, NY.  Immigrating as a teenager, Joe was adjusting to a brand new lifestyle when he met the love of his life, Sharon.  The two star-crossed lovers ran away to elope and began their lives together.  They truly were a couple that was made for each other as they embarked on a life together for 57 years. 

 

Joe was a small business owner for over 45 years.  At one point, he owned and operated at 2 hairstyle salons with the flagship of Mr. J’s Barber Shop located in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, NY. Alongside his wife, Joe relocated his family to Toms River, NJ in the early 80’s to provide more opportunities and a better life for his children.  Joe was now commuting 5 days a week from Toms River to Brooklyn, NY (80 miles each way) to continue running his business and provide for his family and did this for over 30 years before retiring. 

 

Of all the things that Joe accomplished in his life, he was most proud of his kids and especially his grandchildren, Jackson, Noah & Emma who affectionately called him Pappy.  There was nothing more that lit up his life than his grandchildren and the time he spent with them.  Pappy would always talk about his grandchildren to whoever would listen and to even those who wouldn’t! 

 

Throughout his life, he resided Brooklyn, NY and Toms River, NJ before settling in Berkeley Twp. 12 years ago. Joseph attended St. Joseph’s R.C. Church, Toms River. Joseph is survived by his loving wife Sharon, of 57 years, sons Frank of Berkeley Township, Joseph and his wife, Aimee of Langhorne, PA, his daughter Caterina Sansotta and her husband, Russell Cioffi, 3 grandchildren Jackson, Emma, and Noah, 2 brothers Carmine and Claudio, 2 dogs Buster and Mikey, and the cat Lulu. Joseph was predeceased by 1 brother. 

 

A celebration of his life will be hosted by the family at a later date in the new year.