Keohane Funeral Home

Joseph C. Raffa of East Weymouth, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2023 at the age of 91.

He was the beloved husband of the late Madeline (Roussell) Raffa.

Born in Boston he was the son of the late Samuel and Gertrude (Ehmons).  He grew up in Roxbury where he was known as “Joey” to his many friends. As a young man he delivered ice wherein he met the love of his life, Madeline.  In 1951 he enlisted in the United States Navy and was stationed on the USS New  DD/DDE-818 and patrolled the Mediterranean during the Korean conflict. Upon returning in 1955 he married Madeline and started a family in Dorchester. In 1969 and for the next 54 years he and his family resided in East Weymouth. He was a Union Painter for the John M Kennedy Company for many years prior to being employed by the MBTA, where he retired as a Painter/Foreman after 23 years of service. During his retirement years many knew him as a daily fixture at Nantasket Beach power walking all 8 miles of the shoreline. Other interests included weekly visits to the Raynham Dog track, watching the New England Patriots and the Boston Red Sox, as well as viewing old classic movies. In recent years he had the good fortune of meeting a wonderful women, Rita Branchaud of New Bedford. They formed a strong emotional supportive bond.

Loving father of Genevieve “Jenny” and her husband Bernard Lapointe of Carver; Donna and her late husband Walter Welsh of Hanson, Michele Raffa and Glen Ribeiro of Weymouth, and Karen and her husband James Pratt of Weymouth. Cherished Grandfather to Robert Welsh and partner Christine D’Earmo of Abington; Kristy and Malissa Pratt of Weymouth and also adored great-grandson Spencer Welsh. He was the brother of the late Charles; John and Genevieve Raffa. Joseph will also be missed by many extended family members and friends.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Monday 3-7 PM in the McDonald Keohane Funeral Home SOUTH WEYMOUTH at 809 Main Street (Rte.18 opp. So. Shore Hospital). A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Immaculate Conception Church, Weymouth at 10:30 AM. Burial to follow in Knollwood Memorial Park, Canton.

In lieu of flowers donations in Joseph’s name can be made to the charity of your choice.