Joseph passed away in October 2016.  of muscular disease.  He is survived by his wife (Thea) and four children.

Submitted by:  William Kinney, 1955 June class

RYLEY, JOSEPH J., - 80, of Absecon, passed away October 8, 2016. Born in Atlantic City, he grew up in Philadelphia. He was a graduate of Mastbaum Vocational School in Philadelphia. Always having 'sand in his shoes', he made his way back to Brigantine, where he lived for many years, before moving to Absecon 29 years ago. Joseph was a supervisor with Claridge Casino for 18 years, retiring in 1999. He also owned D & R Lumber Company in Brigantine for many years. He was a professional 'big band' guitarist, playing for several local bands. In his free time, he always loved playing his guitar, which wasn't too far away from him. He was an avid target shooter and enjoyed painting in oils and watercolors. He is predeceased by his step-son, Robert Cookinham. He is survived by his wife, Thea J. (Anderson) Ryley; his children, Barbara Ann Ryley, Joseph C. (Jen) Ryley, Janet Lee (Paul) Carman and Tina M. Ryley; his step-daughter, Wendy Sotera; his sister, Claire Amesbury; his grandchildren, Joshua, Angela and Shannon; and 6 great-grandchildren. Visitation will be 9:30AM to 11AM Tuesday, October 11, 2016 at Parsels Funeral Home, 324 New Jersey Ave., Absecon. A funeral mass will be offered for Joseph at 11:30AM at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 591 New Jersey Ave., Absecon. Cremation will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the Atlantic County Animal Shelter, 240 Old Turnpike, Pleasantville, NJ 08232. For online condolences, please visit www.parselsfh.com