Joseph “Joe” Tortorice, Jr.

Comments

Aaron Watson

Jane and I send our thoughts and prayers to each of you. May god place his healing hand on each of you. Joe was a wonderful man and has impacted so many of us. Bless all of you.

Blair Lacoste

To the Tortorice Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. We will always remember Joe and have wonderful memories of him. He leaves behind a wonderful family and we know you will all be a great source of comfort and support to one another. Love, Blair, Loriann and Brendan

Lyn Stevens

Shelley ever since we met at MDA in mid-June you and Joe and your family have been continuously in my prayers. Joe is free of his pain and can finally and eternally rest I His Father’s house. Joe was such a blessing to everyone he met. Please know that you remain in our prayers Lyn Stevens

Julie Dreyer

Joe was the best Christian man. Love and prayers to all of your family. His light will continue to shine!

Nicky Pete

Chris and I send our prayers of peace. Beneath all of the sorrow is strength. God wrap up the hearts of all the lives that Joe touched. Job well done good and faithful servant.

Diana ( Caldronia) Scheier

Judy, Pinky and family, so sorry to hear of Joey's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you.. May God grant you peace.

Josh and Kayla Crigler

We would like to send our deepest sympathy, prayers and support to the Tortorice family during this time of sorrow. Joe was such an inspirational figure within his community and throughout the company and I know we will remember him fondly and think of him and your family in our prayers. We are lucky enough to be a part of his deli family and he will be missed deeply. -Josh and Kayla Crigler and everyone from the Greensboro NC Deli

Greig Woddail

Jason's, a one of a kind restaurant. So sorry for the family. I know Joe will be deeply missed. What a true Christian. Obviously a good and wise businessman, but more so than that, a man with a servants heart that got the Jesus Story right. What a Legacy. May you Rest In Peace Joe. Prayers for Family.

Cal Peveto

I met Joe in the summer of 1979 at a crawfish boil put on by Aggies of SETEX. I later became his UPS man for the Gateway location of his business. He was the best role model for me and countless others in Beaumont and beyond. I respected and admired him. The last time we spoke I was concerned about not having any grandchildren yet. He told me not to worry, told me all about his, and know I have two.. God bless his wife and family.

Becky Conley

I remember seeing him on Sundays when we would go to the deli. Always so friendly and kind. He was so good to my husband Bill who flew the plane for them. My husband just loved him and always enjoyed talking with him. Bill grew to love Jay and the rest of the family while flying for them. Bill has so much respect for Joe. He feels so privileged to be a part of the Tortorice life. He was such a great man. He will be missed but Heaven will be so much brighter. Prayers for the family at this time.

John & Judy Bryant

Our prayers and love for the family and loved ones of Joey. May GOD accept him into HIS Heavenly Home, and an eternal life as a member of the family of GOD. The Bryant family goes quite a ways back, with the Tortorice family, Joe and Margaret at Fruitland Grocery. What a great, wonderful family, always with a helping hand and the love of GOD in their hearts,.

Yolanda Hernandez

i only meet Joe a few times, but he was very welcoming to me and our staff. With a warm smile he captured our attention, no doubt a very special leader and man. Blessing to his family, may he rest in peace knowing the legacy he left.

Sandra Grass

I remember back at the deli in the early 80's it was Christmas time and Joe asked us the employees if we needed a loan to buy presents for our children. Shelley also bought toys to my sister for her children. Joe has been a role model for me and so many others. Thank you Joe for caring and loving people. You will be missed. Fly high Joe. RIP. God be with Shelley and the family.

Frances Sheffield

Robert and I send our thoughts and prayers to Shelly and all the family.. Take care. Frances and Robert

Debbie Mallett

Shelley, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. My family sends their love to you. Joe was an amazing man and father!

Billy and Sally Loden

Joe was a great man. I enjoyed working for him for over 20 years. My thoughts and prayers are with the family

Darlene Galassi Cass

I was so saddened by the news of Joey’s passing.. He was an incredible man and I know he will be sorely missed. My heart and prayers go out to his entire family. May the peace of the Father above be with your family as you go this difficult time.

J Patrick Rick

Just the other day, while dining in one of the Jason's Deli in Lakeway, Texas, I enjoyed the video tribute to the business. It included Joey, my classmate at Kelly high school in 1966. Joey will be missed. I already miss him now. I suspect we will learn more about Joey now that he is gone. It was his nature to highlight the accomplishments of others, not himself.

Peggy Green

I am so sorry for the loss of Joe. He shall be deeply missed by so many. May he Rest In Peace and his family be comforted.

Robert Thompson

Joyce and I are heart broken by the passing of Joey. Our prayers are with Shelley, Jay, Robbie , Ashley and the rest of the Tortorice family through this sad and difficult time. May the peace of the Lord be with them.

PAUL Hilliard

A man of few words but much wisdom.. And a generous, caring heart... our country needs more like Joe T.

Santos Hernandez

I met Mr. Tortorice once and that one encounter told me everything about how much he respected and loved the individual. There was a mixup in table assignments at a big charity event and he and Mrs. Tortorice were placed at the employee table (not in a prominent position). He engaged us in conversation with the curiosity God instructs us to have in living our faith. He was genuinely interested and concerned for our work. When other community leaders invited them to sit with them in the front of the room, he politely and enthusiastically proclaimed "We have the best seat in the house! We are sitting with the employees and learning so much.". God blessed this community with a great servant in Mr. Tortorice. I will keep him and all of you in prayer. It is not an easy on the heart when such a dear and loving person departs and we are left with only memories but one day, your smiles will return and we will all try harder because of his example and love. May God's peace, joy and love fill your hearts in this most difficult of times.

Market and James Gibson

Our sincere condolences for the Tortorice family! May God grant you peace during this time of sorrow!

Jimmy/Peggy Brown

Joe lived an exemplarly life and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.. Our deepest sympathy to the entire family. May he RIP.

Phil and Carla Meaux

Our love and prayers go out to the entire Tortorice Family.. Joe was a special man, a good man, a man of God. We men of Manresa will sorely miss not having him join us at Manresa. Joe was a true attestation to that ideal of Americanism that hard work and dedication can overcome any obstacle. What an inspiration to the the rest of us was this great man. Heaven is even a better place now with Joe there to,look,down upon us poor mortals down here on earth.......

Frank Girolamo

Joey and I have been friends since the first grade. I have many great memories of growing up with him in Beaumont. He was a great man and role model and will be missed by all. Thoughts and prayers for the family. Frank and Sue Girolamo

Jim Rich

In my over 15-year career with the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce, we were honored to have Joe speak to groups and meet with federal elected officials on our behalf. We were always proud to highlight the company and the man. A real inspiration. My thoughts and prayers with the Tortorice family.

Dan Hallmark

Shelly, I am so very sorry to learn of your loss of Joe. One of the special things about my vocation in the banking business those 38 years, was to meet and get to know so many fine business persons. Joe was exceptional, one of the very best and one of the most like likable I ever had the pleasure of working with. His business acumen was truly exceptional and his people skills were just as exemplary. Always with a smile, pleasant and non assuming, he was so humble that you would likely never know how successful he was. I will always cherish my friendship with Joe. I am in Colorado and regret that I will not be there with you and your family to celebrate Joe’s life. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Dan Hallmark

Terry Shipman

Joe was our neighbor and he always allowed his equipment to be used mowing our lawn when mine was broken. He was a kind, caring, and giving person. He will be missed by the entire community. Nancy and I send our condolences to Joe's family.

Carolyn Oster

I don't know if any one of us can convey how much we admired and respected Joe. His passing is sad for everyone who crossed paths with him. He was just the best of the best! Condolences to all of the family and friends. Cherish the memories of this kind man...

Donald and Anna Marie Mazzu

So sorry to hear this....wonderful family.

Daniel Joseph Luken

My Catholic Godfather will dearly be missed by me and many. He taught me the meaning of "Servant Leadership". Regardless of my imprisonment, he was a true disciple of Christ and came in to the prison and witnessed to me and many of my fellow brothers in white. Upon my release he showed his love and gave me a chance at life as i entered a world I did not inhabit for over 34 years, providing me employment at one of his many delis. Knowing he has been gathered in the arms of Christ graciously gives me joy and comfort deep down inside. Well done my faithful servant our Lord will surely tell him. My prayers will be with my Godmother Shelley and the rest of the family.

Vincent Fertitta

Dear Shelly my sincere condolences. Joe was as great man, who I could call my friend. He will sorely missed by everyone!!! I in fortunately will not be able to attend any of the services. I am undergoing chemo treatments at MDA . I will be iat MDA Thursday and return for another round of chemo on Saturday. I am so sorry that I can not attend. My Prayers for you and your family. God Bless!!!

Daniel Joseph Luken

I was imprisoned and he came to visit. A faithful servant of Christ. He taught me "Servant Leadership". I will surely miss him. My prayers to Shelley and the family.

Mike and Elva Neil

I always saw Joe as a Businees and personal mentor of mine. We shared many laughs over the 17 years that I worked for him. Elva and i send our condolences to the entire family.

Susan and Jimmy Simmons

Our hearts are broken for the family and our community. A wonderful man gone way too soon. May God hold Shelley and hers close and give them strength and peace knowing that Joe is resting in Gods arms. God Bless. Susan and Jimmy Simmons

Paul & Paulette Guidroz

Shelley, We are thinking of you and your family as you celebrate Joe’s remarkable life and the memories you shared, May the peace and love of Christ find you during this difficult time.

Ali and Eloisa Habibnia

Our condolences to Shelly and Tortorice family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time.. Ali & Eloisa Habibnia

John and Collette Dockery

To Shelly and all of the Tortorice family , Collette and I send our deepest sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Joe was an inspiration to all who knew him. He will be missed ,but be assured that you will see him again in heaven.. May God bless all of you.

Linda and Ron Reed

Shelly, you are in our thoughts and prayers. May Mr. T Rest In Peace. He was a wonderful leader, always with a smile. I enjoyed his leadership with the bank.

Shirley Nelson Garza

Margaret Rose and Family, So sad to hear about. Joey, What a Wonderful Son he was, and I know he will be truly missed. He is now with Jesus, The one who loved him the most, and his sweet Family in Heaven. My prayers are with your whole Family. What a legacy he left. My Dad, Barnett Nelson will finally get to meet Joey in Heaven. Love you all. 2nd Timothy 4:7

Jo Anne (Sellers) Huber & Steve Huber

Pinky & family, We were so saddened to hear of Joey's passing. I remember in high school your family's home having the Aggie war hymn for a doorbell ring, and Joey's shiny corp boots at the top of the stairs. Our hope is that the memories of him will sustain you throughout this sad time and beyond.

JANICE AND RONNIE CHOATE

Family will be in our thoughts and prayers. Great memories of Crenshaw Beach.

Mike Dail

May God rest Joe's soul. He fought the good fight. I never met Joe until he purchased a ranch in Mason County. He was a good man and left his brand wherever he went out this way. May he rest in peace. Mike Dail '65

David Frank

From the desk of……………David Frank Dear Joe Tortorice, Jr. Family & Friends : I just wanted to take a moment to offer my sincere condolences on the passing of my dear friend, Joey Tortorice.... Below are my views of Joey : 1) The Joey Tortorice I knew had great courage. He was never afraid to speak out against the status quo and conventional wisdom…….. 2) The Joey Tortorice I knew had amazing wisdom. He always knew his subject matter - - and could always defend it….. 3) The Joe Tortorice I knew had conviction. He always felt strong about his ideas, no matter what anyone else thought. 4) The Joey Tortorice I knew had clarity. His message was typically simple, concise and easily understood….. 5) And the Joey Tortorice I knew had credibility. He dang sure knew how to walk the walk and talk the talk. No one had more compromising integrity than my dear friend, Joey. He always thought with discipline and honesty. He could sort through flattery, through politics and could always see things as they truly were. He was a most remarkable man. I always viewed Joey as incredibly competent,, very caring and amazingly confident. Joey reminds me of the following: The boss drives people; the leader coaches them. The boss depends on authority; the leader on good will. The boss inspires fear; the leader inspires enthusiasm. The boss says 'I'; the leader says 'we.' The boss fixes the blame for the breakdown; the leader fixes the breakdown. The boss says 'go'; the leader says 'let's go!' Joey was a real leader.a true friend.and a wonderful husband and father.

Mavis Fore

Dear Shelley and family, My condolences to you all. I know he will be greatly missed... Love and prayers...

Fred Scholder

My relationship with Joey goes back more than 40 years . We began supplying cooked beef with the opening of the Beaumont location. While our meetings occurred periodically at retreats , it was always so special when we had a chance to catch up . Their is a word in the Jewish faith that in so many ways describes him ,,Joe was a "mensch" . meaning he was a man of integrity and honor., He was caring, decent and above all LOVING. I will miss him in my life.,......

Cisco Ramirez

My family is grieving for my second family of Jasons Deli for the loss of Papa Joe, who is now in Gods hands. We know that God has Papa Joe and he is in a better place with no more pain or hurt. Papá Joes legacy will always carry on. Our deepest condolences from MSQ Deli

John & Cindy Lucas

Cindy and I want to send our thoughts and prayers to the entire family. Joe's impact can not be measured. He was one of the most caring and loving men I have ever met. His Servant Leadership and genuine compassion for everyone will inspire generations. May God ease your weary hearts. God rest your soul Joe. It was a sincere blessing to have known you.

John Nelson

Joe, “the Gorillas” was an inspiration to all who had the privilege to know and learn from him! During my corporate career, GTE spent tens of thousands of dollars sending me to executive training courses but I never went to one that was have as good as the 45 minute presentation Joe made to Kelly kids in 1991! His enthusiasm, insight, wisdom were inspirational while eminently practical! I shall always treasure the warmness and kindness with which he always treated everyone! Beaumont and his family have lost a truly exceptional gentleman!

Merrell Richardson '70

"HERE!"

Jerome & Clarisa Cabeen

There are very few people that I have come across in my travels around the world that I would call genuine, and authentic. My wife and I have only been in Beaumont nine years, however, we are thankful we were able to call Joe a friend. He is absolutely the blueprint, and model for authenticity. His mantra of "servant leadership" was rooted in his faith in Jesus Christ, and treating everyone he came across as a friend. The last 6 months of Joe's battle against this malevolent disease we call cancer, I started to send him a text message every 2 to 3 weeks, just to let him know that he was not forgotten, and he was covered in prayer. Joe responded to every text message, saying "I have a great nurse (Shelly) and a great God.." I last saw Joe about 2 months ago at Mass. I hugged him and told him to keep fighting, he held my hand tightly, looked me straight in my eyes, and said, "Keep your texts messages coming, Jerome! Its good stuff." Travel well Joe, may the ONE in which all our seeking ends bring you into its light, joy and peace of eternal life. What a life that was lived.

Gilberto cobos

An amazing man. Met him several times at the Jason's deli in College Station.. He always had a kind word for the staff and took the time to talk with everyone. Rest in peace and prayers ? for you and your family.. You will be missed.

James Folsom

Larry & Judy McFarland, I'm sorry for the loss of family. You're in my prayers.

Bishop Michael J. Sis

Joe was a great example of a man who lived his Catholic Christian faith with integrity. The world was made a better place through his wonderful life.

Charlene Perroni

Mrs. Tortorice, Judy and Larry, I was so sorry to hear of Joey's passing. He has been in my prayers since the day I heard he was sick. I have many fond memories of spending time at your house growing up and getting picked on like I was one of his sister's. I will keep your family in my prayers as you grieve his loss.

Lenny & Janie Danna

Shelley, we were saddened to hear about Joey. Please accept our condolences and know that you and family are all in our prayers.

Bill and Judy Quick

We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Joe. He is one of the finest people we have ever known and we admire him greatly. We are sending healing prayers for his family and friends. God bless you all.

Forrest and Kim Jackson

The world lost an extraordinary mentor and leader who will be sorely missed! Rest In Peace Joe - Shelly, Jay, Rob and Ashley - you are in our thoughts and prayers -. Love the Jackson’s

Candy Mathis Hollis

The loss of Joe is immeasurable in so many ways. My deepest sympathy to his family.

Shaleen Pellerin

My thoughts and prayers are with the Tortorice family and all the friends like myself who he treated like family. Joe always listened with a keen ear, spoke with a kind word, and gave without wanting anything in return but to “do your best”. Thank you Joe for leading the way...may your legacy live on in the countless lives you have touched.

Terry & Gwen Rozelle

So many special memories of Joe, Shelley and their family while we were in Beaumont. Many West End little league games and team dinners at the restaurant and just watching our kiddos grow. Our hearts are full for Shelley, Rob, Jay, Ashley and the entire family. Joe was a very special man in every respect and he will be missed by all who knew him. Please know that your family is in our prayers asking for God's comfort and to provide His peace during this difficult time. Terry, Gwen, Chad and Leigh Rozelle

Laura Jenks Durand

Such a humble, kind, gentle, giving spirit. I can hear God saying, "Well done My good and faithful servant" We lift Joey's family up in prayer. Love and Peace from the Durand Family.

Pat Gafford Coldewey

Dear Shelley and family, Judy, Pinky and Suzanne, I want to express my deepest sympathy to you all. I know that this is such a difficult time for you all but I pray that you find comfort in knowing that there are so many of us lifting you up. I have such fond memories spanning over many, many years of you all even back to Roberts Street when visiting my relatives, the Russell's, who were next door neighbors of the Tortorice's.; to my brief time at St. Anthony's Elementary but then four great years at Kelly High School. It was wonderful to reconnect when I moved back to Beaumont. Since I am now living in Virginia, I will not be able to attend the services but please know you continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. God bless.

Margaret Rizzotto Cone

I was so saddened to hear of Joey's passing. This is such a great loss. Please know that your entire family is in my thoughts ad prayers. God be with you.

anita s. fournier

I extend my deepest sympathy to Joe's family. He was not only a fine man, but a fine businessman as well. He was an asset to the Beaumont Community. Anita Savino Fournier

Sam and Phyllis Chirafis

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Joe's Family and especially Shelly, the children and Margaret Rose.. It is with great sadness that we received this news and we pray for comfort and support for the family. May God give you strength at this most difficult time.

Elaine Henderson

Shelly, I extend my condolences to you and your family. I have admired Joe ever since Lester introduced him to me many many years ago. He was type of man that people admired from near and far. A Godly man who had such a strong conviction and faith. A man who was always there for his community. The commencement speech he gave at a Kelly graduation had a profound effect on my life, I will remember it forever. But mostly he was a family man. He loved you all with all of his heart. You will all be in my prayers over the next days, weeks, and months. Elaine Henderson

Jay Riley

Shelly, I am so sorry for the family’s loss. Joe was the type of person that everyone wants to be like. He was a friend to everyone he met even if he just met you. I will miss him dearly. I always looked up to him. By the way I am still keeping my “Grateful Journal”. May God grant you and yours peace!!

Jimmie Jay Jackson

Shelly and Family, words seems inadequate when expressing my sorrow to you on the loss of Joe.  Your loss is also a loss to his Jason's family, friends, the ministries he served  and the void he left in Beaumont.  All week I've hears everyone praised his kindness, friendliness and generosity towards others.  He set standards for others to follow.  Whenever, I saw him he greeted me with a warm caring smile and concern for my family.  He fought a long and courageous battle and now he is an angel and at peace.  You are in my thoughts and prayers.  Your positive memories will help you get through the rough days.  God is always with you to bring you healing peace.

Mary W Watson

My thoughts and prayers are with each of you.. I will always remember Joe and will miss seeing him when I am at the deli. He was a wonderful person and will never forget his contribution to my husband's 90th birthday party. It was very much appreciated by me and made it a very special day for Ed. May God give you comfort and peace.

Ruth Sonnier

I didn’t, know Joey personally, but I’ve known the family for a very long time. I’ve been Margaret’s hairdresser for quite a while and she talks about her family, it’s like I know all of you personally. I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep all of you in my prayers. Ruth (Ferguson) Sonnier

John Valdez

Good Man. Thank you for your kindness. You will he missed.

Benny Mazzola

Never once did I ever encounter Mr Tortorice that he didn’t greet me with his warm smile & kindness.....his love & passion was exemplary & shines throughout his family....my families thoughts & prayers are with all the Tortorice family.

Patsy Nichols Reed

Joe was a wonderful man. So very sorry he is no longer with us......He will be missed by so many. He set good examples of how we should live.

Brandy McDonald

I remember so many wonderful things about Joe that it is hard to know where to start, he was such a kind and wonderful man. You could feel his love and kindness whenever you were in the same room with him. I will always be most thankful for Joe and Jason's Deli for the opportunity to grow and work for such an AMAZING company and for bringing Thomas and I together. Thomas is a lot like Joe in many ways and we hope to make Joe proud by continuing to be the kind of servant leaders that will help others like Joe did. Our prayers are with you and your family , I hope you feel the love from us the way we felt it from Joe. May God bring you peace. Love Always, Brandy & Thomas McDonald.

Jason M. Mills '94

My condolences to the Tortorice family. Joe lived an exemplary life focused on family, friends and serving others. He was a great husband, father and Aggie! Gig 'Em & God Bless! Jason M. Mills '94

Lindy Brand (McAnulty)

Miss and love all of you! Prayers for each of you! What an amazing legacy! Lindy

Tamara Davis

I have worked for the company for almost 8 years and I've only met Joe once. He was the first hand to greet me during my Core Values and to this day it stands out as one the most memorable moments in my time with this company because, you can feel that he was not a boss; we was just like me and everyone else. His values were something I had seen before even meeting him and a reason I became and manager because, this is a place that cares not only about those who work but, those who dine. I will miss you Joe but, I know that you are watching over all of us and we will continue to make every guest internal and external happy.

Mike and Sheri Mintz

To the Tortorice family , and our good friend Shelley I have been thinking and praying for Joe all summer. Unfortunately, I learned of his passing this morning, Although our friendship and mutual love of the Colorado mountains were several years ago, there became an immediate bond and mutual respect.. I knew immediately upon meeting Joe and Shelley, they would be our friends forever. It was a pleasure to coach Joe and Shelly at 65 years old to learn and love skiing. Their goal was to be with there children and grandchildren on the mountain, and they accomplished that at an age when some skiers begin to retire from their skiing.. That represented Joe’s natural character and dedication for enthusiasm , hard work, dedication , sweet, kind,, and loving husband, father, and grandfather. I quickly learned of his qualities from his sharing the stories of his father, Shelley making sandwiches at the laundromat, and his great philanthropic support of MD Anderson. Our last plan to be together was a trip to the prison, for me to witness the good deeds that he was accomplishing with men on incarcerated.. Unfortunately , the hurricane changed our plans, and the last story was about the entire Tortorice family pitching in to help the people of Beaumont handing out water and food from the fleet of trucks from Jason’s Deli. Joe was a Renaissance man, We will never forget him. May his spirit, love, and mentoring to all that knew Joe live from generation to generation. Coach Mike and Sheri

James (Jimmy) Forker

To the entire Tortorice Family, I am very heartbroken to have learned of Joey’s passing this week. I wish to extend my sincerest condolences to the family. I called him Joey for that is what we all called him back in the day growing up in Beaumont Texas in the early 1960s. As kids, we played a lot of sandlot baseball and football together for those were some great times. Please accept my deepest condolences for your family’s loss. James (Jimmy) Forker Sugar Land Texas 24 Jan 2020