With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Joseph “Joe” Grillo, age 74, he said goodbye on October 31, 2024. A beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend to many. Joe was born in Trenton, NJ, to the late Pasquale and Hilda (Pontani) Grillo, and moved to Wilmington, DE after college. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Joe was a man of many talents and passions. He graduated from Hamilton High School in 1968 and Pennsylvania Military College (PMC) in 1972, the last graduating class of PMC now known as Widner University. Joe embarked on a successful career as a Chemical Operator at Hercules in the 1970s.
Throughout his life, Joe shared a partnership with his wife Sally (Unkart), owning and operating Video Connection in Greenville and Forever Tan in Greenville and Pike Creek. Known as the dynamic duo, they exemplified dedication and teamwork. His dedication and hard work led him to finish his career as a project manager at Tri-State Carpet, Inc. in Wilmington.
A proud member of Tau Kappa Epsilon at PMC, Joe fostered lifelong friendships and brotherhood. Throughout his life, Joe found solace and joy on the golf course, forging friendships, weekly dinners, and creating lasting memories. His love for his family was unparalleled, as he shared 51 years of marriage with his beloved wife Sally and embraced his role as a devoted father to Brian C. Dawson, and to his daughter-in-law Amber Dawson and a doting grandfather to Brian, Lexi, and Lily. Joe was also preceded in death by his siblings, Pasquale Grillo, Jr. and Celeste Grillo. He was a man that was deeply devoted to his family and grandchildren, his love knew no bounds, exemplified through family vacations and cherished moments shared together.
Joe’s legacy of love, hard work, and dedication will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched. A man of integrity and warmth, Joe’s presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, November 8th, from 3 to 5 P.M. at the McCrery & Harra Funeral Home, 3924 Concord Pk., Wilmington DE. A Celebration of Life will follow at 5 P.M. Burial will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306, or www.t2t.org.
For online condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com
