Dr. Joseph S. Tezza passed away January 21, 2012 at his home in Pittsboro, NC surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Lois, his daughters Terry Simms of Norwalk, CT, Lorraine Porcaro and spouse Richard of Chester, NY, Dr. Amy Tezza and spouse Dr. Christopher Tyler of Moss Beach, CA, his son Joseph M. Tezza and spouse Lori Russell of Richmond, VA, his grandchildren Richard Porcaro and spouse Andrea, Molly Simms and friend Andrew Landry, John Porcaro and spouse Susan, Samuel Simms, Nathaniel Tyler, Michael Tyler and his great-grandchildren Benjamin and Alexandra Porcaro. He is also survived by his sisters Mary Setinsek and spouse Rudy, Kathy Luteri, and Wilma Manges and spouse Charles, and special friends Woody Shearin and Ford Heath.

He was born April 21, 1925 in Piney Fork, OH to Peter and Louise Tezza. Dr. Tezza served as a naval officer in World War II in the Pacific theater and in the Korean War at the Pentagon in top-secret control in cryptography as liaison to the White House. He received his D.Ed. from the University of Pittsburgh and was the Coordinator of Special Pupil Services in Armstrong County PA and the Assistant Superintendent of Schools in Bucks County PA in the field of special education.

At Dr. Tezza’s request there will be no public memorial service. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Chatham County Public Library and the Salvation Army.