Deacon Joseph A. Ruggiero, age 61, died on December 31, 2022, after a long battle with cancer.

Deacon Ruggiero was ordained on June 4, 2011, by His Eminence, Cardinal Justin Rigali at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. He was assigned to SS Simon and Jude Parish, West Chester, where he remained.

Deacon Ruggiero was born on April 25, 1961. In 1984, Deacon Ruggiero earned a BA degree in engineering from Saint Joseph’s University. He was employed by VM Ware, a computer technology company.

Deacon Ruggiero is survived by his wife of 31 years, Patricia (Trish), and two adult sons, Michael and Matthew.

Reception of the body and visitation with family will be held on Friday, January 6, 2023, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, at Saints Simon and Jude Church, 8 Cavanaugh Court, West Chester. His Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 7, 2023, at 10:30 AM at Saints Simon and Jude Church, 8 Cavanaugh Court, West Chester. The principal celebrant and homilist will be Reverend Michael J. Gerlach, and Deacon of the Mass will be Deacon James T. Owens.