Joseph A. Raffaele

JEFFERSON - Joseph Anthony Raffaele, Jr., died on January 15, 2026, in Jefferson, Massachusetts, surrounded by family. He was 93.

Joseph Raffaele is survived by daughters Patricia Raffaele (Pittsburgh, PA); Christine Raffaele (Chatham, IL); and Elizabeth Raffaele (Jefferson, MA); sons-in-law David Gorman and James Summers; and grandchildren MacKenzie Gorman, Giavanna Gorman, and Christian Summers.

Joseph Raffaele grew up in the Hill District neighborhood of Pittsburgh and later moved to Mt. Lebanon, where he graduated from Mt. Lebanon High School. He served in the United States Army and was stationed in South Korea following the Korean War. After returning from his service, he met and married Barbara (Christian) Raffaele, and they were married for more than 50 years until Barbara's death in 2011.

For his entire career, Joseph Raffaele worked as an educator. He taught in a Catholic school and in public schools in the city of Pittsburgh. He later served as a reading specialist and administrator for Pittsburgh Public Schools. Joseph Raffaele earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from Duquesne University and his doctorate in education from the University of Pittsburgh. He authored a children's book, Capitán. After retirement, Joseph Raffaele continued to tutor students in reading. He also participated in book clubs and events at the Peters Township Library, where he became a dedicated member of a writing group.

A lifelong Pittsburgher, Joseph Raffaele loved football. He played football for Mt. Lebanon High School and was a devoted fan of the Pittsburgh Panthers and the Pittsburgh Steelers for decades. He was also known for his paintings and for sending hand-painted holiday cards.

Friends and family of Joseph Raffaele can send donations to support the Peters Township Library or the Carnegie Libraries of Pittsburgh as a fitting way to honor his passion for reading and writing. Donations can be sent to Peters Township Library at 616 E. McMurray Rd, McMurray, PA 15317 and the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Development Office, 130 S. Whitfield St. Pittsburgh, PA 15206 or through the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh website.

Arrangements are under the care of Miles Funeral Home in Holden. www.milesfuneralhome.com