Joseph Anthony Monello

Joseph Monello, 90, of Derwood, Maryland, passed from this life on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at Village Crossing in Frederick, Maryland.

Born on March 13, 1936, Syracuse, New York, he was the son of the late Frank Monello and Mary Monello (Curro).

Joseph graduated from Solvay High School, where he was a talented athlete, he played running back for their football team.

He proudly served his country, by enlisting in the United States Air Force, from 1955-1959. After his service, he worked for the Federal Home Loan Bankboard, where he was a computer specialist

Joseph married Mildred Elizabeth Detrick Monello, “Midge,” on August 6, 1960. Together, they built a strong, devoted, and loving marriage that spanned 37 years. They were a true team, working hard to raise their four children, always placing family at the center of their lives. They lived simply, yet created a beautiful life together. Their love was unconditional and steadfast, providing a powerful example of trust, shared values, acceptance, and compromise—but most importantly, love. Their devotion extended beyond each other to their children, whom they cherished deeply.

After the tragic loss of his beloved wife, Midge, on November 5, 1997, Joe poured his heart into his children and grandchildren, continuing to lead with love and dedication.

Joe was fortunate to find love again with Valerie Clarice Dahl Monello, whom he married on March 7, 2003. Through this union, Joe welcomed two stepchildren, Clarice Fay Poole (Pat) and the late William J. Fay, “Billy” (Lisa), as well as four step-grandchildren: Ryan Poole, Kevin Poole, Jake Fay, and Luke Fay. Their love endured for 19 years, until Valerie’s passing on April 25, 2022.

Joe was a man whose presence made the world gentler. Selfless to his core, he gave without hesitation—his time, his patience, his steady support—never asking for anything in return. Kindness came naturally to him, and it showed in the way he treated everyone he met, with respect, warmth, and a genuine interest in their lives. To know him was to feel valued.

Above all, he loved his family with his whole heart. They were his greatest pride and his deepest joy, and he showed it every day—in the lessons he shared, the laughter he created, and the unwavering way he stood by them through anything. As a coach, he didn’t just teach the game; he built confidence, character, and connection, leaving a lasting impact on those he guided.

Joseph had a tremendous love for family, it was what mattered most, he had a heart of gold, and never met a stranger. He found happiness in life’s simple pleasures—the sound of waves at the beach, the quiet focus of a round of golf, the thrill of a day at the racetrack, a good poker hand among friends, and a smooth glass of bourbon at the end of the day. He knew how to enjoy life, and more importantly, how to share that joy with others. In the summer, he loved going to Ocean City, Maryland with his family. Joe treasured visits to his in-laws home in Beallsville, Pennsylvania where he and his wife Midge and children celebrated many holidays with all the Detrick family.

He is survived by his four children, Sheri Monello, Joseph Allan Monello, Jacquelynn Monello Felton (Jack), and, Karen Monello Grymes (Keith), grandchildren; Michael Vincent Davies (Victoria), Christopher Davies, Justin Davies, Carly Monello Segal (Josh), Taylor Monello, step-granddaughter Sierra Dailey, Olivia Felton, Joey Felton, Lindsay Grymes, and Cameryn Grymes, great-grandchildren; Brody James Davies, Addison Rose Davies, Benna Segal, and Liv Segal. Joe is also survived by his sister, Mary Gagliardi.

In addition to his parents, and wives, he is preceded in death by his sisters, Louise Izzo, Olivia Lombard, Josephine Dalton, Concetta Piazza, and Pepsi Monello.

His legacy is one of love, generosity, and a life well-lived—a man who made people feel seen, supported, and cared for. He will be deeply missed, but the kindness he gave so freely will continue to live on in all who knew him.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at Stauffer Funeral Homes, P.A 1621 Opossumtown Pike in Frederick, MD.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 am on Monday, May 4, 2026, at St. Peter's Catholic Church, 9190 Church Street in Libertytown, MD.

Interment will be at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church Cemetery following services.