JOSEPH A. PENNA JR.

Joseph A. Penna Jr., 66, of Garrettsville, passed away on Thursday, March 18, 2021. He was born August 18, 1954 in Cleveland, Ohio to Joseph and Mary Jane (Juhasz) Penna.

Joe was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. He graduated from Garfield Heights in 1973. Known to many as Telephone Joe, he began working as a mechanic for Ohio Bell, and continued his career as a construction splicer at AT&T for 36 years.

Aside from being a very dedicated worker, he was a devoted father and husband. In 1994, Joe met his lovely wife, Lynda, and they got married in 1997. In his free time Joe loved fishing, watching the Browns, shooting pool, and spending time with his family. Many may remember him coaching baseball - of course, he is difficult to forget - especially with the booming voice he had.

He was fond of all children, especially his grandchildren. Joe was known to all as being very charismatic; he was notorious for his many jokes and stories. In his own words, he would often say, "you can't bullshit an old bullshitter." Not only did Joe love time with family, but he also valued his many friendships. From 4th of July parties to Christmas parties, Joe was an amazing entertainer. He was keen on making sure that all felt welcome when walking into the Penna household by utilizing his proud Italian hospitality.

To his children, he would frequently say, "keep a smile on your face and a song in your heart." And those who knew him, knew that music was a big part of his life. Rock 'N' Roll was a favorite, but more than anything he loved Elvis Presley, and made sure that his kids did too.

Although he referred to himself as being a "bad man", he had a heart unmatched in size. He was proud of all his children, and never hesitated to show it. He is severely missed, but we have peace in knowing Jesus took him by the hand and has led him home.

He will be deeply missed by his loving wife Lynda, with whom he was blessed to share 24 years of marriage; children, David (Miranda) Martin , Joseph (Sanaz) Penna, III, Maddalyn (James) Brewer, Shiann (Glen) Harris, Anthony Penna, Angelina Penna, and Devyn Penna; grandchildren, Torie, Nevaeh, Olivia, Matteo, Henry, Everett, and Venarina; siblings; twin sister Renee (Bill) Zaranec, Ron (Janet) Penna, Franny Parker, JoAnn Mezgez, and MaryJo (John) Yovanno.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mary Jane Penna; daughter, Juanita "Nina" Penna, and sister, Connie Frederick.

Please join the family for Visitation on Tuesday, March 23, 2021, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Mallory-DeHaven-Carlson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 8382 Center Street, Garrettsville, OH 44231. Masks and Social Distancing rules will be required and implemented. Funeral Service will be Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at 11:00 a.m., with Graveside Service immediately following at Park Cemetery, Center Street & Brosius Road.