Joseph R. Murgia, 89, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, at Elderwood of Lockport. Born in Niagara Falls, he was the son of the late Russell and Rose (Ruggirello) Murgia.

A proud graduate of Niagara Falls High School, Joe went on to marry the love of his life, A. Shirley (Rizzo) Murgia, on November 30, 1957, at St. Joseph Church.

Joe enjoyed a long and successful career as a sales manager with Bruening Bearings in Buffalo, NY. After retiring, he embraced a second career as a guide with Bedore Tours, a role he truly loved. Meeting new people, sharing stories, and pointing visitors in the right direction brought him great joy.

A lifelong and devout parishioner of St. Joseph Church, Joe was also a dedicated volunteer at the parish’s food pantry at the St. Joseph Outreach Center. His generosity, kindness, and willingness to help others were constants throughout his life.

In his earlier years, Joe loved spending time on the golf course with his friends. He was also a longtime, passionate fan of the Buffalo Bills and the New York Yankees.

Joe was the person family and friends could always count on, ready to lend a hand with anything needed. Above all else, his life revolved around his family. He took great joy in attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and school activities, celebrating each milestone with happiness.

In addition to his wife, A. Shirley, of 68 years, Mr. Murgia is survived by his two children, David R. Murgia and Deborah (Joseph) LaGamba; his grandchildren, Michael (Brianna Carrier) LaGamba, Stephen LaGamba and Matthew (Emily) LaGamba; his great-granddaughter, Abigail Marie LaGamba, whom he cherished deeply; and two brothers, Edward (Nancy) Murgia and Louis (Julia) Murgia, as well as several loving nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by four siblings, Russell Murgia, Gaeton Jones, Roslyn Cancemi and Thomas Murgia.

Visitation will be on Thursday, March 12 from 9:30 – 10:00 AM in St. Joseph’s Church, 1413 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY, where Joseph’s Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 AM. Entombment will he held privately in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.