Joseph Carta Jr.

Joseph Carta Jr., 82, of Leck Kill, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Friday, January 26, 2024. 

Born on March 2, 1941, the first son of Gertrude Blase Carta and Joseph J. Cartaginese at Shamokin State Hospital, he resided in Locust Gap before moving to Mount Carmel.  He is survived by three siblings: Berdine Kubert, William Carta, and Anthony Carta, and was a proud alumnus of Mount Carmel High School, Class of 1958. 

Joe had a very strong work ethic from his teenage years, working at his dad’s bowling alley, Gilotti's Pizza, Smitty’s Body Works, and other local businesses.  His resourcefulness was evident throughout his life, always ensuring to provide for others.

His career journey took him from Arcwire to Shamokin Shoe Factory, Arcos Corp, and eventually to a 30-year career with American General Life Insurance Company.  Known as the 'insurance man' by many customers, Joe was celebrated for his honesty and commitment to providing security to families. 

In 1981, he married Cynthia Ann Welsh, and together they were blessed with seven children: Rachel (and Andrew) Carta Wetzel, Joseph Carta, David Carta (and Nicole), Joshua Carta, Sarah Carta, Jacob (and Sela) Carta, and Rebecca Carta.  He also had four daughters from previous unions: Tammi Carta, Candice Carta, Leann (and Eric) Barcavage, and Kelly (and Pete) Long.  Joe was a loving grandfather to Dominique Johansen, Faith and Grace Myers, Cameron, Madison, and Cayden Barcavage, Gabriella Rumberger, Pete and Nate Long, Hunter Carta, Madi, Mark, Matthew, and Emily Carta, Charity and Samuela Carta; and great-grandfather to Demetria Johansen, Elias Barcavage, Emma and Drew Rumberger.  He also leaves behind many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

His legacy includes an unwavering love for his eleven children, instilling in them a strong work ethic and love for the Lord.  He was active in the Lavelle Church of the Nazarene, serving in various roles including Sunday School teacher, song leader, treasurer, and board member.  His love for Northeast Nazarene Camp was profound, often referring to it as holy ground.

Joe had a special love for the beach, Knoebel’s, and sunny Florida. He was known for his delightful spaghetti sauce, a testament to his love for cooking and bringing family together.  His joy in driving his red convertible to Florida, attending supper club, or supporting local sports events, especially watching his grandchildren or the Red Tornadoes, was well-known.  Joe's presence was a source of joy, making everyone feel special.  His affectionate response to his children’s 'I love you' was always, 'I love you more.'

Religious services will be held on Friday, February 2, 2024 at 11:00 am at the Joseph J. Stutz, Inc. Funeral Home, 40 South Market Street, Mt. Carmel, Joseph J. Stutz III, Supervisor.  Pastor Jeremy Smallwood will officiate.  Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Beaverdale.  A viewing will be held Friday from 9:00 am until 11:00 am at the funeral home.  In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy can be made to Lavelle Church of the Nazarene, 2877 Fairgrounds Road Lavelle, PA. 17943 or Compassion International https://www.compassion.com/ways-to-donate.htm.  To offer condolences to Joe’s family, please sign the guest book below.