Joseph R. Guarglia, Sr.

Born on March 18, 1936, in Hornell, New York, Joe was the son of Anthony “Red” Guarglia and Mary Tagliaferri Guarglia. Larger than life and known for hugs that melted hearts, Joe leaves behind a legacy defined by deep love, loyalty, generosity, and an enduring impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Joe graduated from Saint Ann’s High School in Hornell and began his working life with the Erie Lackawanna Railway before proudly serving his country in the United States Coast Guard from 1954 to 1958. After his military service, he returned to Western New York, where he became part owner of Bennett Auto Parts and later owner and operator of Antlers Bar in Avoca. These early years helped shape the entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic that would define his life.

In 1981, Joe relocated to Raleigh, North Carolina, bringing both his knowledge and his family with him. There, he built a lasting legacy in the auto‑recycling industry, guiding the development of City Auto Salvage of Raleigh‑Durham, Tri‑City Auto Salvage of Greensboro, and Down East Auto Parts. He took immense pride in working side by side with his sons and remained devoted to the industry he loved until retiring at age 83. Just as meaningful to Joe were the many employees who became lifelong friends through years of shared work, trust, and camaraderie.

Above all else, family was the center of Joe’s life. He shared a devoted and loving life with his wife, Cynthia Vann. Through love and loss, together they built a beautiful blended family that became Joe’s greatest source of pride and joy. To his grandchildren and great‑grandchildren, he was lovingly known as Papa and Gramps—a role he cherished deeply and wore with pride.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Cynthia Vann; his children Joey Guarglia Jr. (Sheila), Cindy Guarglia (Mike), Michael Guarglia (Sarah), Penni Daley (Mike), and Stacey Seaford‑King (Jason); as well as his cherished nine grandchildren and eleven great‑grandchildren, who will forever hold their Papa close in their hearts. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Debbie Jo Guarglia; his brothers, Jeree Guarglia and Tony Guarglia; and his parents.

Joe will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his devotion to family, generosity of spirit, unforgettable presence, and the powerful legacy he leaves behind.

A Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at 11:00 am at Saint Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church (5801 Falls of Neuse Road in Raleigh, NC). Immediately following the Mass, the family will host a reception at the Raleigh Elks Lodge (5538 Lead Mine Road in Raleigh, NC).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Hornell High School Alumni Association, or Transitions LifeCare Hospice.

For out-of-town guests, the family has reserved a block of suites at: Embassy Suites by Hilton Raleigh Crabtree - 4700 Creedmoor Road - Raleigh, NC 27612 - (tel:919-645-1466). The group rate is $169 per suite, per night. Amenities include a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast, evening reception with cocktails and snacks, and transportation to and from RDU Airport from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm. Each suite includes two rooms, one of which features a pullout sofa. (Direct Link to Group Rate: https://group.embassysuites.com/e5l1x5) Adjust dates of stay as needed.

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