Joseph J. Quaratella, Sr., beloved husband of Grace M. (Bonomo) Quaratella, of Edwards Street, Pawcatuck, passed away at the Westerly Hospital on Tuesday, March 14, 2023. Joe was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, friend, educator, and loved people with all his heart.
Born in Westerly, he was the son of the late Pasquale J. and Helen Quaratella.
Joe was a communicant of St. Michael Church and a longtime member of the Maria Assunta Society, and the Knights of Columbus Council 21 where he served as a Grand Knight for five years. Joe also served in the Army National Guard.
Joe graduated from Westerly High School in 1953, where he was an accomplished athlete and outstanding four-year varsity athlete in the sports of football, baseball, and basketball. Joe was a part of the Westerly Basketball Swish Kid era under Coach Federico. He then earned a full scholarship to play basketball at Roanoke College before returning home and graduating from UCONN.
He treasured his 28 years at Chariho Regional High School as a teacher, coach, and administrator. Joe loved his school and “his” students; and they loved him.
In addition to his wife, he will be sadly missed by his three children, Scott J. Quaratella of Westerly, Joseph J. Quaratella, Jr. and his wife Martha of Old Lyme, CT, and Kristen M. Quaratella of Groton, CT. Joe also leaves behind his sister Joan M. Abruzzese of Noank, CT; five grandchildren, Marcus, Nina, Catherine, Lauren and Jacob; his niece Pamela and nephew Michael Abruzzese.
Visiting hours were held on Sunday at Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home, 59 Spruce St., Westerly.
Relatives and friends are also invited to attend the Funeral Liturgy at 10am on Monday at St. Michael Church, 60 Liberty St., Pawcatuck. There is no procession to the church from the funeral home. Interment will follow at St. Michael Cemetery, Pawcatuck.
Contributions in his memory may be made to the St. Michael’s Capital Campaign, 60 Liberty Street, Pawcatuck, CT 06379.
For online condolences please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com