Joseph “Joe” Douglas Fertitta, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on May 30, 1946, in Nashville, Tennessee, he was the son of the late Joseph D. Fertitta and Dorothy Jean Ulrich Fertitta.
Joe was a talented welder, working for many years as a foreman at Kirk & Bloom before retirement. He was known not only for his skilled craftsmanship but also for his quick wit and joyful personality that lit up any room. His wonderful laugh and memorable one-liners brought joy and comfort to those around him.
After graduating from Father Ryan High School in 1964, Joe briefly attended Austin Peay University before enlisting in the United States Marines in 1966, serving his country proudly. His strong sense of duty extended beyond his military service; he dedicated much of his life to serving others. As a devoted member of St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Gallatin, he delivered communion to homebound individuals and even dressed as Santa Claus to bring joy to residents in local nursing homes.
Joe was a proud 4th Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus, Bishop David Choby Council 10010, where he also served as a former Grand Knight, Faithful Navigator, District Deputy, and Financial Secretary. His commitment to faith and community was an integral part of who he was.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Tony Fertitta who passed one day prior to him.
He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Linda Fertitta; daughters, Lisa Fertitta and Adriane (Rob) Fertitta; granddaughter, Juniper Sanders; sister, Deborah Fertitta and her husband Tom Croffut; nieces, Elizabeth Parker and Isabella Fertitta; nephew, Nicholas Fertitta; and bonus daughter, Rachael Poff.
His family will honor his life with a series of services held at Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Gallatin, TN. A Rosary will commence at 4:00 PM followed by visitation from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. A Funeral Mass will take place at St. John Vianney Catholic Church on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with Father Richard Childress as Celebrant and Monsignor Stephen Gideon as concelebrant. Burial with military graveside honors provided by the United States Marines follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens in Goodlettsville at 1:00 PM. Pallbearers will be Richard Harris, Jim Opalek, Toney Catignani, Rick Catignani, Edwin Zimmerle, and Leslie Ridgeway. Honorary pallbearers will be Louie Miranda, Mike Eisenbraun, Laurie Baker, Shelley Downing, Charyl Irby, Shawn Gray, Shericka Hughes, and Francis “Buddy” Lawhon.
Joe Fertitta’s legacy of love, service, and laughter will endure in the hearts of all who knew him.
This obituary was published by Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center.
This obituary was published by Obituaries provided free for the community.
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