predeceased by his parents, Alphonso and Maria Valvano of Newark, NJ, and by his
wife of 67 years, Priscilla Walker Valvano. He is survived by one of his ten siblings,
Delores Carnevale of Bloomfield NJ; his children, Joanne Stavola and Arlene Tuosto of
NJ, and Pamela V. Gibson of Chicago and Jonathan W. Valvano of Austin; his six
grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Joseph was a Master Cabinetmaker, known throughout the shoreline for his custom
made furniture, and retail store on Rte 81 in Clinton, the Early American Shops. He
served in the US Navy during WW II, stationed in Corpus Christie, where he met a US
Navy Wave, Priscilla Walker, at a USO dance. Upon their discharges from Service, Joe
and Priscilla were married in Clinton, June 15, 1947. Joseph was active through his life
in several civic groups, the Clinton Rotary Club, the Lions Club, and most widely, the
American Legion, Post 66, in Clinton. He held several offices in the American Legion,
including Commander in Clinton, as well as state wide. He was administrator of the
Soldier, Sailor and Marine Fund for several years, helping service families in need along
the shoreline.
Upon his retirement from the retail furniture store in 1987, Joseph returned to his first
love, custom cabinetry. But if woodworking was his pride, his passion was always in
dance. Joe was a standout ballroom dance performer throughout the Northeast,
winning several competitions. In 1983 he reached the pinnacle of amateur ballroom
competition when he won the National Title in the Lindy Hop, at the Harvest Moon Ball,
in Madison Square Garden. He danced up to the end. His friends are confident he is
dancing, still.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, September 13th, from 6-8 pm at Swan Funeral
Home, 80 E. Main St., Clinton. A memorial service will be held on Saturday September
14th, at 12 pm. in The United Methodist Church of Clinton, 12 Commerce St. Burial with
military honors will follow in Beaver Brook Cemetery, Clinton. To sign the online guest
book, visit www.swanfh.com.
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