Joseph A. Merlino, Jr., age 92, of Collings Lakes, NJ, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2024.

Joseph was born on October 24, 1931 to Joseph and Florence Merlino.  He was a graduate of Hammonton High School, Class of 1949.  On September 29, 1951, Joseph married his sweetheart, Loretta Sharp.

In 1952, Joseph joined the US Army.  He was a proud Korean War veteran and member of the VFW in Gloucester.

Joseph worked at numerous restaurants in his younger years.  He owned a few local gas stations, including the Merlino Save Rite in Blackwood, NJ. When he moved to Florida in the early 70's, he became a manager at the Coca Cola plant.  After returning to NJ, he and his wife owned and operated the Ivy Inn in Deptford, NJ. Joe later worked for the Buena Regional School District, where he retired as a Truant Officer in 2002.

Joe had a love for antique cars; he enjoyed restoring them and going to car shows.  He was a long-time member of the Garden State Model A's, the Vintage Stock Car Club and a founding member of the Cruisin' Classics Car Club.

Joe's love of cars wasn't limited to antique cars, he was also heavily involved in auto racing.  In the 50's and 60's he owned the #104 Sportsman stock car and raced at tracks all over the Tri-state area, including several years as track champion.  In 1998, he orchestrated a reopening and reunion of the Atco Speedway circle track.

Beloved husband of the late Loretta H. Merlino (nee Sharp).  Loving companion of Giovanna E. "Jenny" Jardel.  Devoted father of Darlene "Dee" Smith (the late Ken), Joe Merlino (Sherry), Wayne Merlino (Dawn), Ron Merlino (Jennifer), and Gary Merlino (Bob).  Dear brother of the late Rita Bailey and the late Evelyn Salvatore.  Loving grandfather of Jenny, Kenny, Shannon, Ricky, Dan, Wayne, Joey, Ronnie, Anthony, Dylan, Sarah, Ryan, Dominick, Angelina, Rosalie and great grandfather of Kenny, Aubrey, Levi, Joey, and Dahlia, with a sixth on the way.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Monday, May 20th from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the Farnelli Funeral Home, 504 N. Main Street, Williamstown, where a service will follow at 12:00 PM.