Joseph "Joe" Sawey, Sr.

Joseph Sawey Sr. passed on August 10, 2026, at the age of 92. Joe was born in Paterson, NJ, and grew up there before moving to Haledon, NJ. After he met Rosanne and took her as his bride, they made their home in Palisades Park, NJ. They lived there for 41 years and then moved to the Renaissance at Manchester, NJ in 2008. Joe had worked in customer service for 30 years, most notably at Buitoni Food Company in Hackensack, NJ and at General Corrugated in Palisades Park, NJ.

Joe was a classically trained pianist and performed at many venues. Most memorable was his 1970’s residency at Mario's Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge, Paramus, NJ, where he drew large crowds every weekend.

In the late 50s / early 60s, Joe had his own rock band called the "Joe Sawyer Trio". In 1957, they were scheduled to play in Toronto, Canada. When his band was awaiting the hotel elevator with their instruments and gear, the doors opened and out walked Elvis Presley and his Memphis Mafia. Elvis asked Joe “Are you guys musicians?” When Joe replied that they were, Elvis turned and said "have breakfast with us” and Joe's band had breakfast with Elvis and his entourage.

Joe was also a very quick witted man and would astonish most with his remarks. He was also a passionate and knowledgeable sports enthusiast, who could talk about all sports, the coaching styles, stats and players.

Joe and Rosanne had a marriage that most couples would aspire to have. They were two people that became one with love, patience and respect. They were able to pass along these traits to their son, Joey, along with Joe's musical love.

Joe is survived by his devoted and beloved wife of 60 years, Rosanne Sawey, his loving son, Joey Sawey and his partner, Anita, and his brother Terrence "Ted" Sawey. He was predeceased by his parents Ida and Terrence Sawey.

Visitation will be held at Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home, 3010 Ridgeway Road, Manchester, NJ 08759, on August 14, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Joe. will be held at St. John Catholic Church, 619 Chestnut St, Lakehurst, NJ 08733, on August 15, 2026, from 10:00 am to 10:40 am. Please be at the funeral home at 9 am, to follow the procession to the church.

A Committal Service will follow the mass at St Joseph's Catholic Cemetery and Mausoleums, 62 Cedar Grove Rd, Toms River, NJ 08753, on August 15, 2026.