Joseph R. Fida, an avid animal lover, retired science teacher, and decorated Korean war veteran, peacefully passed away during the midnight hour of July 16, 2021, at the age of 91.

He is survived by daughters Colleen Fida-Foster of Fernandina Beach, FL, Mary Jo Fina (Bruce) of Richmond Hill, GA, and Kerry Ross (Mitchell) of Emerald Isle, NC and was preceded in death by daughter Tara DiCesari (Louis) of Philadelphia, PA. He is also survived by nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Born on January 3rd, 1930, to Isabella and John Fida in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Joseph (Joe) Fida was raised in a traditional Italian Catholic household. After returning home from the war in Korea, Joe met his wife, Eileen, after agreeing to pick her up for a date with his friend. Knowing a good thing when he saw one, Joe immediately “forgot” about his friend and took Eileen out for a date himself. Joe and Eileen were married on April 27th, 1957.

After living their entire life in Philadelphia, where he taught science for decades at Our Mother of Sorrows School, Joe and Eileen retired to Amelia Island in 2003 where they enjoyed going to the beach and attending Mass at St. Michael’s Catholic Church.

Remembered by his daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren for his ingenuity in Christmas tree decorating, his love of a good snack (pretzels and a Coca-Cola), his unusual beach attire, and his spirited nature, Joseph Fida showed everyone how to live life on their own terms.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, July 21, 2021 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church with Fr. Jose Kallukalam as Celebrant.

Joe will be laid to rest beside his wife, Eileen at St. Peter’s Episocpal Cemetery.