Joseph Gregory Di Lisio- known as Joey D, Joe Dilish or simply Joe was always writing his own story. One chapter at a time, mile by mile, he lived without boundaries and followed the road wherever it led. His nickname “Joe Dilish” wasn’t just playful it honored his grandfather joe Di Lisio Sr., carrying family pride forward with humor and heart.
Joe had a rare gift: he made everyone feel like family. his laugh was loud, contagious, and unforgettable, often filling room before he did. A natural storyteller, Joe turned strangers into friends and moments into memories wherever he landed.
Drawn to motion and adventure, Joe’s life unfolded on rails, highways, and coastlines. A certified firefighter, he trained and coached alongside fire crews in New Mexico and Colorado, bringing grit, warmth, and camaraderie to his work. His career reflected his free spirit always moving, always curious, always chasing the horizon.
Joe married his wife, Vicki Wilson, and together they traveled and worked in the hospitality industry, embracing adventure as a way of life. Among their favorite places was the Bahamas, where sun, stories, and laughter came easy. most recently, Joe shared his life with his partner, Michelle Christie.
Proud of his Italo-Swed roots, he shared a special bond with his mother, Ruth, whom he lovingly called “Hub” a name that spoke to their closeness and the warmth that shaped him.
Joe believed that being raised right wasn’t about perfection but said ” being raised right doesn’t mean you don’t drink, party, or smoke. Being raised right is how you treat people your manners and your respect.”
That belief showed in a way he lived, the way he welcomed others, and the way he left people feeling seen and valued.
Joe is survived by Michelle Christie; his sisters and brothers, Wilma Jo McNamara, Thomas C. Di Lisio, Steve and M. Jean Wharton, Elizabeth and John Dobby, Christine and Mark Morris, Melea and James S. Di Lisio, Michelle and Tim Di Lisio, and Jane and Mark Di Lisio; and his sixteen nieces and nephews: Lisa Barcelona, Antoinette Bradley, Levi Wharton, Jennifer and Lauren Dobby, Sarah, Mark, and Jessica Morris, Katy Evans, Joseph and James Di Lisio, Anastasia Schwaner, and Stepen and Megan Di Lisio.
Joe lived generously, laughed loudly, loved fiercely, and left behind a life rich in stories. his adventures were endless, his spirit uncontainable, and his story written his way, on his own terms will be told with smiles for years to come.
Recitation of the Most Holy Rosary will be held on Friday January 23, 2026, at 11:00 am at St. Patrick’s St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 am with Father Bill Wotovich as the Celebrant.
Rite of commitment and internment will follow in the Mt. Calvary cemetery.
Joey D was in my cousin Diane Hood Redd’s Class year, so I knew him since the 60’s. He was Diane and her husband Glenn’s best friend, so every time I visited from Dallas, we would get together. I really liked Vickie, we shared a Birthday, and was happy that they remained close friends. Diane and Glenn’s kids Crystal, Casey, and Dakota, and their families, loved Joey to the moon and back, and so did I. My condolences to his family and many friends. Joey D, you are already very much missed.💔
My deepest condolences go out to all the family. He was a one of a kind. We had a lot of fun together when we were younger. I will deeply miss you along with the old gang. Till we meet again and rest in peace my friend.
My condolences to the DiLisio family. Joey was a handsome, sweet young man, gone too soon. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
My condolences to the Di Lisio family . I knew Joey D for many years and he will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace my friend.
Joey D. I was only blessed being your friend for a short time of our life on this planet but you were one of few that touched my soul with your hardy laughter and never ending positive attitude. I will always cherish the memories.
Rest In Paradise my friend. My condolences to the world for your loss.
-Your Dirty Biker Friend,
BIG Johnson.
My condolences to The Di Lisio family. Joey D you will be dearly missed. You were an awesome brother inlaw and I thank you for looking out for my sister Vickie. You were an awesome uncle to our kids. You will always be known as Uncle Joey to them. You looked out for all of us Wilsons and I thank you for that. Rest peacefully Joey D 🙏✝️🙏
Wow Uncle Joey d you will be missed by many it’s just shocking to us and the Wilson family right now…RIP Uncle Joe
RIP Joe
My brother Joe, I’ll miss you but hold on to our memories until I see you again.
Our condolences to the entire Di Lisio family. Joe was one of a kind and will be missed.
I am so sorry about Joey dilasso Jon pesikan he was my friend