Joel A. Pagano, 81, entered into eternal rest on Monday, November 13, 2023 at home with his loving family by his side. Born in Elizabeth, NJ, son of the late Anthony and Selma (Silverman) Pagano, he was raised in Union, NJ and had resided in Union, NJ for many years before settling to the Flemington section of Raritan Township, NJ twenty seven years ago.

Joel was honorably discharged from the United States Navy having faithfully served his country as a machinist mate. During his four years of service Joel embraced his travels and the people and cultures throughout the world, that prior to, he had only read about in books. He often reminisced about the Cuban Blockade.

Joel retired from Schering-Plough in Kenilworth, NJ; for 6 years he was scout master of Troop #94 in Hillside, NJ; he was a parishioner and involved with the military ministry of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Roman Catholic Church in Three Bridges and was active with Hunterdon County Senior Center. Joel loved traveling both at home and abroad, studying history, and enjoyed hunting and fishing.  He was passionate about cooking and gardening, often sharing the fruits of his labor with others.

Joel leaves behind his beloved wife, Lana C. (Cammarata) Pagano with whom he joined hands in marriage on September 1, 1962; two loving & devoted children, daughter Gina Rogers and her husband Al of Flemington, son Guy Pagano and his wife Lisa of Hampton, NJ. He will be deeply missed by his adored granddaughters, Olivia and Jessica and by his precious great grandchildren Marek and Violet.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation on Friday, November 17, 2023 from 4 to 8pm at Countryside Funeral Home, 724 Route 202 North, Three Bridges NJ 08887 and the funeral mass on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at 10:45am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Roman Catholic Church, 105 Summer Road, Three Bridges, NJ 08887.

Joel will be laid to rest at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, 830 Highland Rd., Newtown PA 18940 on Friday, November 24, 2023 at 10:00 am.

Memorial contributions may be made in Joel's name to Stein Hospice, 354 Demott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873 in appreciation for the care and compassion shown to Joel and his family. To send condolences to the family or light a candle, please visit www.CountrysideFuneralHome.com