Joseph Anthony Giumarro II

Joe was born on December 15, 1960, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, to Donald C. Giumarro and Harriet E. Stansfield. Raised on a farm in his youth, he spent his days free-range, playing in the woods, and creating daring and adventurous games for himself and his siblings.

Joe attended Oliver Wolcott Technical High School, graduated early, and swiftly enlisted in the U.S. Navy, following in his maternal grandfather’s naval footsteps. After basic training, he was stationed in Gaeta, Italy attached to USS Albany for two years, then aboard the USS Lexington as a machinist mate 2nd class.

Joe met his beloved wife Darleen during the autumn of 1981 onboard the USS Lexington. Courtship stories include the laundromat and invites to pizza, as Joe was in strong pursuit. Shortly thereafter, he proposed. He was persistent, impulsive, and “pretty cute.” Married in Big Lagoon Park in Pensacola FL, on March 7, 1982, their wedding was attended by family and friends.

Cassie was born later that year. Joe was a little scared of his tiny new infant, he handled her so gently. The family moved to Connecticut, where Joe joined his father’s construction business. The business and family grew as Joey was born in 1984.

Joe was saved in 1987 when he received Christ as his savior at the Faith Bible Church. This acceptance of Christ changed his whole life—his attitude, his relationships, his goals & desires. He dove into scripture and began a path towards teaching and church leadership. Joe began to grow in the Word in his own way by talking deeply about faith and scripture. He simply wanted people to feel the same peace and certainty that he carried within himself.

His working life was an extension of his faith and family. Working alongside Darleen, Joe loved creating and making something of nothing. He drew the houses out on paper. He taught Joey everything he knew, and they have spent many years working together.

In 1991, the family went back to AL to care for Darleen’s mother. Joe set up a fresh business from scratch in Cullman, and while building homes also built a church. Joe regularly preached at Faith Bible Church in Hartselle for many years. He lived for the Lord, and did so with depth and a sense of humor.

Enter the grandkids—what can we say?—he was the kind of Papa who leaves everyone devastated that he’s gone. He loved his grandkids and delighted in life events. He had strong bonds with each of them. In parenting and grandparenting, he encouraged through Bible verse, and in hard times he reminded them that there are better times to come.

Joe never met a stranger. He was charismatic. He connected with and was curious about all people. He was a great listener with a near-photographic memory. He never did anything by half measures. He was loyal. Constant. Generous. Funny. Faithful. Strong. And will be forever missed.

Joesph is survived by his best friend and wife Darleen of 44 years, daughter Cassandra and Austin Phillips, son Joseph (and Nicole Hayes). Grandchildren: Allbany Douglas and Chris Skinner, Ethan Douglas (and Mary Skinner), Carter and Amanda Douglas, Hayden Giumarro. Great-granddaughters: Adelaide Douglas and Illa Douglas. Siblings: Renée Giumarro, Chip & Sue Giumarro, Andrea Giumarro, Gena Giumarro. Many nieces & nephews. Wirtes cousins. Countless friends near & far.

Joe is predeceased by his parents Harriet Stansfield and Donald Giumarro, mother-in-law Ruby Wilson.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff of DCI2 Dialysis Center, and for all the medical professionals who helped care for Joe in his final years.

We leave you with words that gave Joe comfort in the hope that you may take comfort in them as well:

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? John 11:25-26

Visitation will be held at Moss-Service Funeral Home, 1901 2nd Ave North West, Cullman, AL 350555827, US, on May 26, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Moss-Service Funeral Home, 1901 2nd Ave North West, Cullman, AL 350555827, US, on May 26, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm.