Joseph J. “Joe” Trala, Jr.
May 10, 1938 - April 2, 2025
Joseph J. “Joe” Trala, Jr., age 86, of New Castle, DE, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.
Joe was born in Wilmington, DE on May 10, 1938. He spent his early years proudly serving the U.S. Army for four years. Following his years in the military, he spent his time as a carpenter under many businesses, and was there for anyone who needed help, and ending his career through the State of Delaware. Joe was quite talented at working with his hands and could build anything that he was asked without a second thought. In his free time, he loved camping with his family and friends, bowling, golfing, cheering on the Eagles, and creating memories with his loved ones. A friend to the community, Joe (“Poppa T”) was a member of the Knights of Columbus who always took every opportunity to help others. Following retirement, Joe enjoyed cheering on his kids and grandkids at all of their sporting events, no matter the distance. His most cherished memories were made at family gatherings with loved ones. His dedication to his faith, love for God, and the church was one of the many things that described him as an individual.
There are no words to express the depth of the loss of Joe. He was a man of immense strength, wisdom, and unconditional love. He touched the lives of everyone who was fortunate enough to know him and crossed paths with him. While his loved ones are heartbroken, they find comfort in knowing that he is now with the love of his life, their mom and mommom, Philomena. They are reunited once again, and though they will miss him deeply, they find peace in the thought that they are together and the memories they hold in their hearts with them. The lessons he imparted, the love that he gave, and the way he lived his life with grace and kindness will continue to guide and inspire them every day. His legacy lives on in all of them, and they will carry his spirit in their hearts forever.
Joe was preceded in death by his loving wife and soulmate, Philomena J. (Vignola) Trala; his parents, Joseph J. Trala Sr. and Mary (Wierzbicki) Trala; and his sister, Patty Ann Drummond. He is survived by his proud children, Joseph Trala III (Christine Caruso) of Middletown, Deborah Breen (Michael) of Middletown, Richard Trala (Susan) of Newark, and Tammy Pritt (Kenneth) of New Castle. He is also survived by his proud siblings, Mary McDaniel of Elkton, MD and Tom Trala (Diane) of Bear. Finally, he is also survived by his proud grandchildren, Joey, Alicia, Jordan, Mackenzie, Michael, Jimmy, Ashlee, and Hailee, and many nieces, nephews, family members and friends.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 6 pm until 8 pm on Monday, April 14, 2025, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 1000 North DuPont Parkway, New Castle, DE. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11:30 am on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at Our Lady of Fatima R.C. Church, 801 North DuPont Highway, New Castle, DE. A committal service will follow in the chapel of Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, DE.
In lieu of flowers, Joe’s family is kindly asking that a donation may be made in Joe’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 or online by clicking here.
Christine Evans battin
Sending our most sincere condolences from the entire Evans Family! Praying for you all to have peace and know that he is in the best care up in Heaven.
John Lodge
Joe, Christine & family:
Sorry to learn of your loved one’s passing. May you find peace and reflection in the coming days as you remember a life well lived. Our prayers will be with you during this difficult time.
John & Christine Lodge, Lewes DE
Tony Cassetta
Trala Family,
I met your father bowling on a Friday night years ago. Great guy, and his children are proof of that!!
So sorry for your loss, thoughts and prayers for you and your family! God Bless!!
Tony Cassetta
Anne (De Rocili) Smigielski
My sympathy on your loss. May he rest in peace.
My great-grandmother’s name was Filomena Vignola George.
I was wondering if we could be related.
Take care.
Sue and Jim Breen
Joe it was such an honor knowing you. Your smile always lit a room. You were always there helping everyone and your love for your family was a beautiful thing to watch. Thank u for giving us such a wonderful daughter in law in Debbie you will be miss so much the world is going to miss a great man but heaven gain a beautiful Angel. Take Phyl hand and fly into paradise. Your heart is whole again. Love u Joe
Lynda McDaniel
Sending love and healing your way. Sadly, my memories are only from the past, Uncle Joe was always a pleasure to be around, always happy and in good spirits. He definitely lit up the room when he was there. I loved watching the keepsake video, very beautiful, and nice to see family members I haven’t seen in so long. Joe, Richie, Debbie you all have beautiful families, miss you all! I’m so sorry for your loss. I will see you all at the viewing.
Pat & Ken Northrip
Dear Sam and family we are so sorry for your loss. Nancy was such a good person and will be remembered by everyone who knew her. Prayers for you and your family. Love Patricia Ann
Curt Clifton
Dear Joe, Christine and the Trala Family. I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Trala sounds like a wonderful man and an example to follow. I’m sure his life was a blessing to his family and the memories you made will be a treasure forever. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Lydia L Carter
Debbie and Family, Deepest sympathy for your loss. Prayers for everyone!!
Matt Jamison
Joe, Christine & Family – I’m sorry to learn of your Father’s passing. It sounds as if Mr. Trala lived his life to the fullest. I’m sure he was extremely proud of you. You will be in my thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.
Respectfully,
Matt Jamison
Rowena Henry
Tom, so sorry to hear that your brother has passed away. Sending prayers of comfort to you and your family. Cherish the memories you’ve made and hold them in your heart.
Lorraine and Steve Clark
Prayers to all. I met Joe throught my Mom’s husband Jimmy Gland. Joe did work on our home in Bear and also build our shed. Everything is still standing. Thanks for letting us know him.
Jackie Albanese (Melissa’s mom)
Very sorry for your loss
Joe was a great guy.
My love is with your entire family. I know he is now at peace. God bless.
Jim Mayhart
RIP Joe