Tributes

With broken hearts we share the passing of Joseph Phillip Galletta of Charlotte, NC (formerly of Bayside, NY) beloved husband, father and grandfather. Born in Dublin, Ireland and brought to this country as a toddler, he carried his Irish roots with pride all his life. These shaped his spirit: strong, resilient, fiercely loyal, and full of quiet depth. Though he grew up here, Ireland was always in him: in his strength, in his wit, and in the way he loved his family. He was a tough man who faced life head-on and never backed down from responsibility. Intelligent and sharp-minded, he had a wisdom that didn't need to be loud to be powerful. A natural musician, he played the piano in Carnegie Hall as a teenager and enjoyed music throughout his life. Joe joined the Navy at 18 and served his country as a Radio Operator in the Vietnam War. He returned home to meet the love of his life and start a family. As a self-taught IT aficionado, he enjoyed a successful career in Information Technology. He was a devoted father, outnumbered by women, and he happily drove his girls all over the tri-state area for their various interests and hobbies. He also served as the Youth Leader for the St. Nicholas Church in Wyckoff New Jersey. He was an epic racanteur and telling stories about his coming of age in Queens, NY was a pastime most loved by his children and grandchildren who were the willing recipients of his magnetic and comedic personality. Joseph is preceded in death by his parents, Lillian and Phillip Galletta; sisters, Maureen and Carol Galletta. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Irene Galletta of Charlotte; Daughters: Melanie Sansone (husband Douglas), Kristin Kirby (husband Chris), Jacquelyn Burka (husband Joe); Brother: Gerard Galletta (wife Patricia) and Goddaughter, Maria Galletta. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren Samantha and Jeana Sansone, Dylan and Quinn Kirby and Jackson and Juliet Burka, all of whom he adored immeasurably. Though our hearts ache beyond words, we are forever grateful for the love, guidance, and strength he gave us. His spirit lives on in who we are, in the values he instilled, and in the bond we share because of him. The world feels different without him in it - but we know his strength surrounds us still. May the road rise up to meet him, and may he rest peacefully, forever loved. A Memorial Service for Joseph will be held in the upcoming months - details to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Cajun Navy. Cavin-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Galletta family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavn-cook.com.

Tributes

Joseph Phillip Galletta

May 19, 1947 - March 2, 2026