Joseph J. Taxiera

Joseph J. Taxiera, 95, a lifelong resident of Stoughton died at the New England Sinai Hospital in Stoughton on Sunday, January 27. Born in Portugal the son of the late Manuel and Carrie Taxiera, he was one of nine children. He was the beloved husband of Mary (Pagnotta) Taxiera for 70 years. Joe and Mary operated Mary and Joe's Coffee Shop on Wyman St., Stoughton for a few years. After that they owned and operated Modern Home Decorators on Washington St., Stoughton for 45 years before retiring 10 years ago. Mary was the licensed decorator for 43 years.

Joe was an avid sports fan, especially football, baseball and golf. He was the recipient of the 1990 Contribution to Amateur Football Award by Eastern Mass. Chapter of National Football Foundation and Hall of Fame honoring 53 years of refereeing.

In addition to his wife, he leaves a sister, Virginia Ellery and family of Taunton and a nephew, James Taxiera and his wife Ellen and family of Raynham. He is also survived by many other nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held from the Farley Funeral Home, 358 Park St. (Rt. 27) Stoughton on Thursday, January 31 at 9:30 AM followed by a Funeral Mass at Immaculate Conception Church, Stoughton at 10:30 AM. Visiting Hours Wednesday 4-7 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe's memory may be made to American Heart Assn., 20 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701.