Joseph Louis Torchia

 Joseph Louis Torchia, 65, passed away peacefully, at the Abraham House of Rome, Monday, July 27, 2026, after a year long battle with Stage 4 Prostate cancer. His devoted and loving family was by his side.

Joe was born in Utica, May 8, 1961, a son of the late Salvatore “Sonny” and Patricia (LaSalle) Torchia. He was educated in local schools and a graduate of Utica Free Academy. He later attended college classes at Herkimer Community College and SUNY College of Technology.

Joe was a sales rep for United Auto Supply for over twenty years. He worked around the state and more recently the Utica area. Joe “Torch” was also a well-known area bartender, and worked in many local bars, restaurants, and also private parties, where his skills and affable nature always made him a pleasure to be around.

Joe was an avid golfer and loved nothing more than to be with family and friends. He was loyal, lovable, and just a joy to spend time with. He relished evenings out for dinner and cocktails, and those times were his happiest memories.

He is survived by his three children, Jordyn Albright and her husband, Jeff, Matthew Torchia, and Ryan Torchia; his grandson, Carson Albright; sisters and brother-in-law, Michelle Torchia, and Christine and Frank Zogby; nieces and nephews, Frank Zogby Jr. and his wife, Joanna Zogby, Sunni Buttacaroli, Zoey Zogby and her fiancé, Nate LoParco,  Anton and Evan Esposito; great nephews and great nieces, Salvatore and Giovanni Buttacaroli, Ada and Campbell Zogby; his aunt, Darlene Torchia; many cousins, especially, Tony Esposito, who was like a brother to Joe. Joe was blessed with many friends, with special mention of Andrew Hobika, Kevin Murphy, Lisa Owens, and Susan DeFuria-Luker. Joe had countless other family members and friends who felt like family that meant the world to him.  He touched so many lives and will be truly missed.

He was predeceased by his parents, his aunt and uncles, Carmelita and Vincent Esposito, Anthony Torchia, Ronald and Gloria LaSalle, Alfred and Joan LaSalle; and cousin Vincent Esposito.

Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation on  Monday, August 10, 2026 from 10 am to 12 Noon at The Matt Funeral Home, 700 Rutger St., at Mohawk St., Utica. There will be a service at the conclusion of visitation.

The family would like to offer their heartfelt thanks to the Abraham House, for the loving care and compassion shown to Joe during his illness. In recognition of this please consider donations to this fine facility at www.theabrahamhouse.org

Online memorials at www.MattFuneralHome.com.

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