Joseph “Joe” L. Merlino, Sr. passed away on October 11, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. He grew up in South Boston and most recently resided in Hyde Park.
He is lovingly survived by his devoted daughter Denise M. Merlino and her partner Darren R. Durfee; and is predeceased by his son, Joseph “Joey” L. Merlino, Jr. Cherished grandfather of Joseph, Shannon, Matthew, James, and Jackie, and proud great-grandfather of Sunny, Anthony, Vincent, Braelyn, Madelynn and Jameson. He also leaves behind his former spouse and lifelong friend Annette L. Yunghans, with whom he shared a close and enduring friendship; his companion and caregiver Diane Murphy, along with her children and grandchildren; his sister Mary O’Toole; many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews; his best friends Walter and Cathy Fromm; and his goddaughter Cherylinn Fromm.
Joe was predeceased by his parents, Leo and Felicia Merlino; his sister and brother-in-law Marjorie and Joe Guaragna; and his brother Leo Merlino.
Joe was a proud member and former Treasurer of Quincy Public School Custodian & Trades, Local 1191, where he was respected for his dedication and integrity.
Family was everything to him. Joe loved being a grandfather—he had silver in his hair and gold in his heart. Nothing brought him more joy than his grandchildren. He shared a special bond with his sisters remaining especially close to them throughout his life. To his sister Mary, he was always “Jo Jo,”. Their playful banter and deep connection brought joy to all who knew them. He always made sure his family was cared for, never letting anyone go without.
Joe can best be described as a man of quiet strength, deep kindness, and simple, steadfast love. Thoughtful by nature, he often sent handwritten notes to let others know he was thinking of them. He never sought recognition for his generosity—his greatest reward was seeing the joy in others. He genuinely loved making people laugh—whether with his quick wit, his famous Donald Duck impression, or his warm, infectious smile and those beautiful blue eyes. He had a lifelong love for animals. In recent years, his beloved dog Thor was his constant companion and best friend, bringing him immense comfort and happiness.
Joe’s humor, kindness, and unwavering love for his children, grandchildren, extended family and friends will remain in our hearts forever.
Relatives and Friends are invited to attend visiting hours at Casper Funeral Home 187 Dorchester St, South Boston, on Monday October 20, 2025 from 10:00AM-10:45AM, immediately following with a Mass of Christian burial at 11:00AM at St. Augustine’s Chapel, 181 Dorchester St, South Boston at 11AM. Burial services will be held St. Michael’s Cemetery on a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe’s memory may be made to the South Boston Boys and Girls Club, 230 W. Sixth St., South Boston, MA 02127.