Mr. Joseph G. Moro, 84, of Upton MA and formerly of Milford MA died unexpectedly on Saturday (November 29, 2025) shortly after admittance to the Milford Regional Medical Center.
Joe remembered for his kindness, humor, and wide-ranging interests was the son of the late Joseph “Peppi” Moro and the late Rose (Testa) Moro. Joe was born and raised in Milford and was a proud graduate of Milford High School, Class of 1959.
As a boy, he worked at the former Hixon’s Ice Cream Shop, a first job he fondly recalled throughout his life. He went on to attend the University of Massachusetts–Amherst, graduating in 1963 with a degree in Political Science and aspirations of becoming a teacher. During his college years, Joe played lacrosse for UMASS-Amherst, a sport he would remain passionate about throughout his life. He fulfilled his early goal of student teaching in the Milford public schools before finding his true professional calling in banking and mortgage finance.
Joe built a long and successful career in the industry. He worked at Homeowners Federal Bank and later joined Manhattan Financial in Dedham, MA. He continued his work in the mortgage field with Marathon Mortgage, and he also owned and operated Easton Mortgage, further establishing his reputation as a respected and trusted professional. Joe ultimately retired from Bay State Savings Bank after decades of dedicated service.
A proud veteran, Joe served six years in the Massachusetts Army National Guard.
During his years at UMASS-Amherst, Joe became a member of the Theta-Chi Fraternity, friendships he cherished throughout his life. He was also a longtime member and past president of the Worcester Chapter of the UMASS-Amherst Alumni Association. Deeply committed to community, he volunteered for years as a Big Brother and was a member and past president of the Worcester Executives Club. Staying true to his Italian Milford roots, he was also a proud member of the “Mangia-Mangia” Club.
Joe lived a big life full of adventures and blessings. A lifelong lacrosse fan and former player, he continued to support the UMASS-Amherst lacrosse and football programs with great pride. He loved to travel and embrace adventure—he even experienced the famed “running of the bulls” in Spain. He journeyed to Morocco, Sicily, and many other destinations around the world, exploring cultures, meeting people, and creating memories. He especially treasured traveling to Italy with Pam, friends and family and had the privilege of two of his children joining him on separate occasions, sharing with them the land he loved so deeply and the heritage that shaped him.
A true car enthusiast, Joe shared his love of car racing with his children, taking them on many memorable Formula 1 race trips and owning sports cars, and in his later years he enjoyed driving his convertible with the top down driving through the hills of Worcester smoking a cigar. Those adventures became cherished stories and lifelong bonds.
Joe was also an avid reader, particularly fond of Ernest Hemingway and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Known for his friendly, outgoing personality, he met people wherever he went, always eager to strike up a conversation. Nothing delighted him more than showing photos of his beloved wine cellar or proudly offering a bottle of his homemade dessert balsamic vinegar, a creation he shared generously with friends, family, and anyone he came in contact with.
Joe is survived by his three children: Brian M. Moro and his wife Linda of Brockton, MA; Joseph R. Moro and his wife Jessica of Rochester, NH; and Victoria E. Gillespie and her husband John of Duxbury, MA. He also leaves behind seven beloved grandchildren: Christian, Olivia, Cameron, Fiona, Aiden, James, and Violet. He is survived by his sister, Kathleen Moro Nesi of Michigan; his brother, Robert Moro and his wife Catherine of Fort Myers, FL; several nieces and nephews; his loving longtime partner, Pamela Rozanski of Upton, MA; and her daughter, Lisa Anzede, her husband J.P., and their children Max and Sam who he shared a special bond with. He is also survived by his former wife, Elena (Victoria) Moro.
In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. Visiting hours will be held Tuesday evening (December 9th from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 7:00pm at the Edwards Memorial Funeral Home, 44 Congress Street, Milford, MA.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations in Joe’s memory to a charity of one’s choice.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph George Moro, please visit our floral store.