Mary Sica
Joe or as I knew him, Joey, was a childhood friend and we got to hang out as adults with our kids. We lived across the street from each other. We first met the day my family moved into our new house in Brookhaven when I was six. His first words to me were, “Bet you don’t know what that is”, pointing to a gigantic praying mantis, eye level to the both of us on the side of my house. He was right, I didn’t know what this odd looking insect was and he proceeded to inform me of all the facts pertaining to it. I wasn’t proficient in English, so I only understood half of what he was touting. But he was cute with sweet smile so I listened until he was finished. I didn’t know what to say; I was shy, sort of! I gave him a quick peck on the cheek and ran into my house. I was embarrassed about what I did but we became friends despite my brazenness. I was so proud of him watching the Super Bowl in 1981. When the Raiders won, I couldn’t believe it. My friend had gotten himself that coveted ring, WOW! When I saw him after that he was humble about it. He was still the Joey I knew and loved. Joey, you always had a place in my heart, I will always carry you with me. You are leaving a void on this earth where you once were. But now you watch over all of us. You are missed, we love you!❤️☘️