Attorney Joseph J. Terrana
- Mar 4
- 2 min read
Attorney Joseph J. Terrana passed away on March 3, 2026, unexpectedly at home. Born on May 20, 1962, in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Angelo and Dolores Terrana, Pittston.
He was a graduate of Scranton Preparatory School, University of Villanova and the George Mason School of Law, where he was an editor of its Law Review. Joseph worked as the Chief of Staff in the District Office of Congressman Paul Kanjorski for many years, Director of Operations for Fannie Mae in Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania, and practiced law at the office of Terrana Law, P.C.
Joseph was a brilliant, sharp, and endlessly quick on his feet. His sense of humor was unforgettable. Effortless, clever, and sometimes delightfully dry, he could disarm a room in seconds. He knew exactly when to deliver the line that would leave everyone laughing. Even in serious moments, his wit found a way to shine through.
Above all, he was a proud father, his two children were his strength, and he often said they were his greatest achievement. They motivated him and gave him purpose beyond and professional success. In them, he found his deepest pride and enduring joy.
He leaves behind the memory of a man who was sharp-minded, humorous, and faithful. His laughter, his wisdom, and the strength he drew from those he loved most will continue to live on in all who knew him.
Joseph is survived by his loving children, Jake Terrana and Lola Terrana, and their mother, Cindy Terrana; a sister, Rosemary Dessoye and husband Joseph; brothers, Attorney John J. Terrana and wife, Lori; and Attorney Angelo C. Terrana, Jr. and wife, Nancy; brother and sister in law, Dr. Shawn Casey and wife, Michele; nieces, Jennifer Haas, husband Robert, and sons, RJ, wife Julianna and Alex. Jodi Boylan and daughter Madeline; Dr. Katie McHale and husband Dr. Kevin McHale and sons Jack and Christian; Julie Palumbo, husband Jeff and children Rosalie, Lucca and Josephine; Dr. Mia Gilmartin, husband Edward and son James Edward Gilmartin; Samantha Casey and Shawna Casey; nephews, Attorney Joseph A. Dessoye, wife Elizabeth and sons JD and Luke; George Casey, John Charles Terrana and wife, Attorney Mara Terrana; and Angelo C. Terrana, III.
To honor his memory, in lieu of flowers and food, kindly make a donation to Meals on Wheels in Pittston, a cause that was near and dear to his heart.
The family will receive friends and relatives Friday March 6, 2026 from 4-7PM in St. Joseph Marello Parish 237 William St., Pittston, and again on Saturday March 7, 2026 from 10AM-11AM in the church.
A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday March 7, 2026 at 11AM in St. Joseph Marello Parish 237 William St., Pittston.
Interment will take place is St. John the Evangelist Cemetery, Pittston.
Arrangements are entrusted to Adonizio Funeral Home, LLC – Pittston.
I was so sorry to learn of Joe's passing. He was a wonderful man and a dedicated public servant working for Northeastern Pennsylvania. One of my favorites. I so enjoyed greeting him at various government meetings and events. Be assured that Joe and the entire Terrana family are on my mind and in my prayers. Kevin Blaum
We are deeply saddened by the loss of such a lifelong friend to our family. His generosity and the kindness he showed us over the years will always be remembered and will forever remain in our hearts. — Russ, Mark, and Paul Eric Kanjorski
Please accept our condolences. We are so sorry for your loss. Steve Farruggia and family.
Our deepest condolences to his Children and Loved Ones.. Joseph was truly a kind friend and spread a light of joy that shined bright always, which we have learned in the little time we've come to know him! He will be missed!
Neighbors John and Alaynna Murphy.
Shocked and so sad to hear of this. Joe and I were colleagues in the Congressional office for years. I loved him like a brother. Later he helped us with a legal matter that was above and beyond. Ill never forget him. Rip old friend. Sincerec ondolences to his family. Ellen Bigelow Jones (Dan)