Joseph Nicolas Gilberti, born April 20, 1941, in Springfield, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, at home with his family by his side.

A devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Joe's greatest joy in life was the love he shared with his family.

Joe later made his home in Feeding Hills, Massachusetts, where he built a life filled with family, friends, animals, laughter, and traditions that created countless cherished memories.

Joe was the beloved son of the late Pasquale Gilberti and Marie Stenta Gilberti.

Known to many as "Joe Leather," he earned the nickname through his work selling leather coats, a name friends and acquaintances remembered fondly over the years.

In his younger years, Joe worked in construction. For a time, he also proudly owned and operated a flea market in Louisiana, where his outgoing personality and love for meeting people made it the perfect venture.

Joe was widely known for his deep compassion for animals, especially his beloved German Shepherds, which always held a special place in his heart. Over the years, the family home was always full of life with many animals and pets. Most importantly, the family shared a special bond through their horses, which brought great joy and many cherished memories.

A very sociable man who loved the company of others, Joe created countless memories through his traditions. His Sunday family dinners were well known for bringing everyone together. There was always a house full of family and friends, plenty of laughter, and a welcoming table where everyone felt at home.

The pond behind the family home down the hill became a special place where Joe spent countless hours fishing with his children and later teaching his grandchildren the same simple joys of patience, laughter, and time together.

Joe was also known for hosting some of the biggest and most unforgettable Fourth of July parties, celebrations filled with fireworks, great food, and laughter. Guests were always greeted by one of Joe's unforgettable traditions — a female mannequin placed by the pool each summer, something that became a funny and beloved trademark that friends and family still smile about today.

Above all, Joe adored his three daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Being a father and grandfather brought him tremendous pride and happiness, and his love for his family was the center of his world.

Joe was predeceased by his beloved wife, Michelle Merryman Gilberti, and his sister Conchetta Miller.

He is survived by his daughters Gina Gilberti and her partner Ernie Ortale, Kathy Cortese and her husband Dominick Cortese, and Tina Spina and her husband Dave Spina; his cherished grandchildren Jerry Kane, Katie Waterman, Tony Green, Sienna Spina, and Nicolas Spina; his beloved great-grandchildren Jade and Crew; and his sister Loretta Elkas.

Joe's life was defined by the love he gave so freely to his family and friends. His home was always full of life — laughter around the table, animals in the yard, and people who knew they were always welcome. The memories he created and the love he shared will live on forever in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, March 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Agawam Funeral Home, 184 Main Street, Agawam, Massachusetts 01001.

In honor of Joe's love for animals, donations may be made to the Dakin Humane Society.

Joe is now reunited with his beloved wife, Michelle, and all those who went before him, finding peace together once again.