Joseph F. Coccia

Joseph F. “Joe” Coccia, 93, beloved husband of the late Sebastiana “Ann” Inglisa, a lifelong resident of Phoenixville, PA, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family, on Thursday, April 3, 2025.

Born on September 15, 1931, in Phoenixville, Joe was the son of the late Giuseppe and Julia (Fusco) Coccio. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and was known for his unwavering love and support for his family.

As a young boy, he worked odd jobs like shining shoes at the Valley Forge Army Hospital. He was also a Pin Setter at its bowling alley (and the bowling alley, the Reeves Recreation Center, next to the Colonial Theater). He even tried caddying at the Phoenixville Country Club.

Growing up, he was a member of St. Mary’s Church- attending St. Mary’s Elementary School, and later graduating from Phoenixville High School.

After graduation, Joe was a carpenter’s apprentice, where he learned his life-long trade and notably worked on: The Wharton Esherick Museum in Malvern, PA, and The Chateau Graniere, a popular Wedding Venue in Norristown, PA.

Initially, he and two of his brothers formed Coccia Bros. Builders. He left his mark on Phoenixville and the surrounding area, building over 50 homes as a self-employed Carpenter, and renovating even more. He had the good fortune of working with his nephews, Jimmy and Bobby, as well as with other great partners throughout the years.

Joe married the love of his life, Ann, on October 16, 1965. Together they built a family and home filled with love, faith, and dedication. His loves were his religion, family, working with his hands, cowboy movies, country & western music, having coffee & pastries at McDonald’s with his morning “breakfast buddies”. He and Ann also enjoyed visiting religious sites, touring Italy & Sicily, and meeting Italian relatives in the US and abroad.

Joe was a lifelong boxing fan, and in his youth, he trained at the Phoenixville Area Civic Center. He also enjoyed watching championship bouts on TV and attending local boxing matches with friends.

Both Joe and Ann were also devoted to their religion, and were founding Parishioners of St. Basil the Great Church, Kimberton, PA. He helped with renovating the old church its, stained-glass windows, the rectory garage, convent, and the gym.

Additionally, Joe was an Honorary Life Member of the Knights of Columbus, attaining the rank of 4th Degree Knight, of the Phoenixville Chapter. He was also recognized for his 56 Consecutive years of attendance as a member of the Men of Malvern Retreat, (where he served as an Acolyte). Each year, he looked forward to the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Italian Festival, where he and many of his closest friends, processed the Blessed Mother through the streets of Bridgeport.

Together, Joe and Ann participated in various church activities, attended daily mass, and Eucharistic Adoration, at St. Basil’s and many of the local Churches.

Joe cherished spending time with his family and hosting special family gatherings/celebrations. He will be remembered for his honesty, kindness, generosity, and the joy he brought to everyone he met. He leaves behind a legacy of love, humility, and faith that will continue to inspire his family and friends.

He will forever be in our hearts and dearly missed!

Joe is survived by his children: Donna (wife of John Patriarca), Lisa Coccia (and Colin Ignatovig), and Thomas (husband of Lisa Kate); six grandchildren: Morgan, Antonio, Ryan (husband of Dana, father of Grace), Colby, Caitlyn, and Alicia; sister: Julia Durachko; brother-in-law: Domenic Inglisa. He was preceded in death by his brothers: Ernest, Peter, Anthony, and Francis; and his sisters: Josephine Martin, Mary Ursini, and Theresa Coccio. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews, and was preceded in death by several loved in-laws and many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the viewing from 9:30 AM – 10:45 AM on Monday, April 14, 2025, at St. Basil the Great Catholic Church, 2340 Kimberton Road, Phoenixville, PA 19460, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at St. Ann Cemetery in Phoenixville, PA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Basil the Great Catholic Church (2300 Kimberton Road, Phoenixville, PA 19460), Good Works Inc. (PO Box 1441, Coatesville, PA 19320), or a charity of your choice.