Passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the age of 74 years.

Loving father of Scott (Jennifer) Carnaghi, Gina (Donald) Parks and Angela (James) Pieroni. Treasured grandfather of Isabelle and Kathryn Carnaghi, Hannah Monday, Madeline Pieroni and Emily Parks. Dear brother of Robert (Judy) Carnaghi and Michael (Sharon) Carnaghi. Also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Barbara A. Carnaghi (nee Luebs) (2024) and his parents Frank and Wilma Carnaghi.

Joseph was born October 6, 1951, in Joliet. He was a gifted musician and educator, earning degrees from VanderCook College of Music in Chicago and Governors State University. Joe devoted more than 30 years to his students as Band and Music Director at Southwood Junior High School, retiring in 2007. Through his patient guidance and enthusiasm, he inspired generations of young people to discover a love of music.

Beyond the classroom, Joe shared his talent as a keyboard player and vocalist with the band Phase III, performing at many venues throughout the Chicagoland area. He was also skilled in repairing band instruments, always willing to help students, colleagues and fellow musicians keep their music playing.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, December 3rd at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 255 W. North Street, Manhattan. Visitation will be held at the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home & Crematory, 2320 Black Rd., Tuesday, December 2nd from 3:00 to 7:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Lightways Hospice (Lightways.org) will be appreciated. For additional information, please call (815) 744-0022 or visit www.CHSFUNERAL.com