Joseph Anthony Wardy

Joseph Anthony Wardy, 77, of Dover, NJ passed away on January 10, 2024. A veteran of the Vietnam War, Joseph proudly served his country in the United States Army. Joseph, fondly known as Joe, was born to Elizabeth and Charles Wardy in Paterson, NJ on September 24,1946. After returning home from Vietnam, he graduated from Montclair State University, and began his career as a high school business teacher. Joe was an inspiring, beloved teacher who won NJ Teacher of the Year in 1977. Joe went on to work as a corporate trainer at Merrill Lynch, Panasonic, and Franklin Covey but continued to teach as a professor of business at County College of Morris. After his retirement, he began a second career as a substitute teacher at Morris Hills High School in Rockaway and Morris Knolls High School in Denville. An avid writer, Joseph wrote a weekly column in The Daily Record for over 10 years.

He was also the author of five books, including Everyday Wisdom for Teenagers. Joe is survived by his two children, Adrienne Griffin of Denville and CJ Wardy of Wharton as well as his son-in-law Edward Griffin and his three grandchildren Arianna, Michael, and Audrey Griffin. He is also survived by his sister Mary Joan Ajjan and brother-in-law George Ajjan of Franklin Lakes. Joseph was predeceased by his parents, Elizabeth and Charles Wardy, and his brother, Charles Wardy. Passionate about giving back, Joe was a frequent volunteer at the Community Soup Kitchen of Morristown, now known as Nourish NJ, raising thousands of dollars in their annual Hunger Walk. Joe believed in the power of kindness and devoted his life to uplifting and encouraging others. From passing out inspirational quotes to students to hand-writing letters to family and friends, Joe positively impacted our community and will be missed.

The visitation will be held on Monday, January15th from 5 pm - 8 pm at Par-Troy Funeral Home, 95 Parsippany Road, Parsippany, NJ. A funeral service will be held in his honor on Tuesday, January 16th at 10 am at St. Ann Melkite Catholic Church, 802 Rifle Camp Road, Woodland Park, NJ. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in his honor to Nourish NJ.