Joseph C. DiFrancesco, 92, of Denver, PA, and formerly of Mount Carmel, passed away on April 1, 2026, at the loving home of his daughter, Julie. He was born on December 25, 1933, to the late Benedict and Anna (Rossi) DiFrancesco at the family homestead in Atlas. He was the second youngest of 14 Children.

Joe was a 1952 graduate of Mount Carmel Township High School. Following graduation, he served in the U. S. Army and returned home to eventually own and operate a hoagie shop with his brother, Dick. It became the place where he would meet his partner in life. On May 12, 1962, at St. Peter's Church in Mount Carmel, he married the former Nancy S. Stine, who preceded him in death on January 20, 2023.

Joe held various jobs over the years before he finally found his "home" as co-owner of Hollywood Pizza in Mount Carmel, along with his brother-in-law, Bernie Stellar Sr. Working beside his employees and serving his patrons brought him nothing but joy and gratitude for many years. Following his retirement, he eventually returned as a part-time employee to reconnect once again. During his Hollywood years, he developed a special and lasting bond with his great-nephew, Jayson Stellar.

Lovingly known as Smokin' Joe, or the mayor of Mount Carmel, his smile, sense of humor, and infectious personality brought so much joy and laughter to so many. He was a jokester and the life of the party, and it was only fitting that he passed away on April Fool's Day. Joe thrived on social connections and was a friend to everyone. He spent many mornings back in the day at the breakfast counter in Academy Sports Center, and many afternoons drinking beer and shooting the bull at his favorite place, Dorko's Bar. When you sat down next to him, you became an instant friend.

Joe loved watching and following sports. He was a die-hard Mount Carmel Football fan, and an avid Eagles and Phillies fan. During the past three years, he discovered joy in completing puzzles, doing word games, watching game shows, and playing solitaire. His favorite place to eat was at the Diner in Denver. But more than anything, it was his immediate and extended family that brought him the most joy of all. He was happiest when surrounded by his children, their spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His closest buddy was his great-grandson, Ashton.

Joe is survived by his children and their families; son, Joseph DiFrancesco and his wife, Peggy of Williamsport; daughter, Julie Cooper and her husband, Brett of Denver; daughter, Joann Reeser and her husband, Christopher of Harrisburg; grandchildren, Gina (Anthony) Houser, Nick (Sophia) DiFrancesco, Tyler Cooper, Haley (Jordon) Riehl, Drew (Sydney) Reeser, and Adam Reeser; great-grandchildren, Julianna, Isabella, and Ashton; a sister, Jean Stellar; a brother, Ben (Denise) DiFrancesco; a sister-in-law, Beverly Stine; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families.

In addition to his wife and parents, Joe was preceded in death by siblings and in-laws: Min (Russ) Federico, Lena (Marty) Wynne, Middy (Carmella) DiFrancesco, Mary Jean (Bernie) Stellar, Dick (Rose) DiFrancesco, Anthony "Bronx" (Ann) DiFrancesco, Julie (Bob) Pitello, Dora DiFrancesco, Joan DiFrancesco, infant siblings, Ben and Anna, John Stellar, and Alan Stine; as well as several nieces, nephews, and his loving dog, Charity.

Joe's life was one well-lived and deserving of celebration. He departed without pain and suffering and on his own terms, blessing his family with one final good day, and ending with a beer and a Phillies win. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at noon with Father Bernard Wamayose, AJ, officiating in Divine Redeemer Church, 300 W. Ave., Mt. Carmel. Burial will follow in Mount Carmel Cemetery. There will be no visitation, and all are welcome to attend the Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Mt. Carmel Public Library, 30 S. Oak St., Mt. Carmel, PA 17851. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.cjlucasfuneralhome.com