Joseph Anthony Dichiara

Joseph Anthony DiChiara, age 84, of Trussville, Alabama, was born on December 10, 1938, and passed on Friday December 16, 2022.

Joe was a member of Trussville First Baptist Church and a long-standing resident of Birmingham and Trussville, AL. He was preceded in death by his mother, Rose Cicio DiChiara and father, Frank Joe DiChiara, and his wife of 18 years, JoAnn Owen Hill DiChiara.

Joe is survived by his daughter, Dolores DiChiara (James Loftis); stepson, Dennis Hill (Ann); stepdaughter, Phyllis Montalto (Anthony); and stepson Derrick Hill (Beverly). Joe is also survived by eight grandchildren, Charles Burns (Mary Eisenhower); Nick Hill (Amy); Tamara Hill Teel (Taylor); Erin Montalto Ludwick (Bruce); David Montalto (Shelby); Katy Montalto Lincoln (Daniel); Bailey Hill (Sydney), Olivia Hill (Ley Sheffield); and 16 step great grandchildren. He is also survived by his former wife, Katerina Paffos DiChiara.

Joe was the youngest brother of Frank “Buddy” DiChiara (Rody), and Jeanette Gagliano. He leaves behind numerous beloved relatives and special friends. Joe probably never met a stranger he would not call a friend after meeting.

He was retired from Mt. Brook fire department first working as a fireman, starting in his 20’s until retirement. Joe also drove the firetruck and was a paramedic. He was proud to also work in the DiChiara family dry cleaning business of Monarch Cleaners for over 40 years. If you asked Joe what he did besides that, he would laugh and tell you he dabbled in a few other jobs, some all at the same time.

As a young boy he was athletic and played baseball and was on a Toy Bowl football team that he would still talk about as if it was yesterday. He was a graduate of Phillips High School. Joe continued to enjoy attending athletic events, especially following Auburn baseball and football. He was thrilled of the success of his cousin Ciro’s grandson, Sonny DiChiara, and was able to attend an Auburn baseball game, seeing one of his many home runs.

Joe’s faith was evident in his work and life. He enjoyed learning more of the Bible, was eager to attend worship and his Sunday School Class. As difficult as his passing is to so many, we are comforted by his testimony, belief and walk in faith.

Joe did not seem to tire and at 84, was still working, trying to do what he could. That is something of a motto of his life, to continue to do something that brings you joy, to be a blessing to others and finding the good in all of aspects of life. He would also say he made some mistakes and learned from them. We also can in his memory and honor, even in his death. His love of faith, family, hard work, friendship, and integrity will forever be remembered and treasured.

A celebration of life will be held at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Trussville, AL on Thursday, December 22, 2022, at 12:00 p.m. with visitation held one hour prior. Burial will immediately follow at Jefferson Memorial’s adjoining gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made in his memory to any children’s charity, animals in need, or the charity of your choice.