Joe Stabelli

Joe Stabelli, 93, passed away on May 10, 2026 in Fort Wayne, IN. Born February 2, 1933, in Philadelphia, PA, Joe was the son of the late Joseph Peter Stabelli Sr. and Virginia (Nasuti) Carrillo. He later made his home in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he was widely cherished and will be deeply missed.

Joe’s life reflected steady resilience and quiet inspiration. Vision impaired from a young age, he was so remarkably bright that his family did not realize he was legally blind until the fourth grade. Yet this reality never defined the boundaries of his days; instead, he met it with determination that shaped the way he lived, learned, and cared for others.

Joe obtained a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s Degree from the University of Pittsburgh, and devoted many years to work as a social worker before moving to Fort Wayne for a psychoanalyst position. He also served as a professor at IU Fort Wayne in the psychology department.

A gifted musician, Joe taught himself guitar by sound and became a skilled jazz guitarist and vocalist. Over the years, he played jazz guitar and sang at venues throughout Fort Wayne, including Hall's Gas House, Club Soda, and Bill's Bistro—sharing his talent with audiences in a way that felt both effortless and heartfelt.

Joe’s generosity and care were also felt most intimately at home. He was an amazing cook, preparing incredible meals from scratch for his family. His granddaughters adamantly agree that his homemade pasta and meatballs and strawberry ice cream were beyond compare. A devoted dog lover, he took his own dogs to nursing homes around Fort Wayne to visit residents, offering comfort and companionship.

He found contentment in long walks, audiobooks, and working with his hands. With patience and purpose, he made wooden toy boxes and toy cars for his loved ones—gifts that carried not only craftsmanship, but affection made tangible.

Joe is survived by his daughter, Mia (JJ Herring) Stabelli; his granddaughters, Amber Carnahan and Mariah Stabelli; his great-grandson, Jeremiah Stabelli; his nephews, Joseph and Tommy DeCarolis; and family friend, Mary Kay Jannetta-Howe.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Judy Stabelli; his parents; his siblings, Dorothy (Joseph) DeCarolis and Frances Meeker; and his best friend, Tom Jannetta.

In accordance with Joe's final wishes, the family will be holding a private Celebration of Life at a later date.

Memorial contributions in Joe's memory may be directed toward The League for the Blind, 5821 S. Anthony Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46816, or the Stabelli Society Literacy Alliance, 1005 W. Rudisill Blvd #307, Fort Wayne, IN 46807.