Joseph “Joe” J. Bova, Jr.
April 8, 1957 – April 16, 2026
Resident of Holbrook, MA
It is with heavy hearts we announce Joseph “Joe” Jerry Bova Jr., 69, of Holbrook, MA, passed away on April 16, 2026. Born April 8, 1957, in Boston to the late Joseph Jerry Bova Sr. and Gilda (DiOrio) Bova, Joe was a longtime Holbrook resident, owner of Bova’s Corner Sandwich Shop and one of the three family owners of Bova’s Bakery, a beloved local bakery in the North End of Boston where his dedication and creations fed generations of customers. Known for his quick math skills, stubbornness, fierce loyalty, ambition, and diligence, Joe poured himself into his work and his family. His love language was feeding people—whether making rice balls or frozen dinners for the bakery or hosting Sunday night family meals— this generosity formed the heart of his relationships. He took pride in his accomplishments and his family.
He was predeceased by his siblings Anthony Bova and Victoria Bova. He is survived by his wife Diana of 42 years, his sons, Joseph Jerry Bova III and his fiancée Chandra Merrill, Michael Bova and his wife Whitney, and Milo Bova; by his grandchildren Shawna Bova, Lillyanna Felix Bova, Merchon Brown, and Dominic Bova. He also leaves his sister Lucille Catricala and her husband Alfredo, and a host of nieces and nephews: Nicole Silva and her daughter Lena, Joseph Catricala, his wife Meagan and two kids, Cambria and Gabriel, Ventura Malave, his wife Kristina and three kids Julianna, Jayla and Victor, Joshua Doty, Nicole Candelora, Ray Steele, Charissa Wade, Scott Roach, Richard Roach and countless more cousins, extended family and beloved friends.
Joe will be remembered for his strong work ethic, warm generosity, steady presence, chicken cutlets and meatballs. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Funeral from the Hurley Currie Funeral Home, 127 So. Franklin St. (Rt. 37), Holbrook on Friday, April 24th at 10:15am followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Joseph Catholic Church at 11am. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, April 23rd from 4-7pm. Interment Union Cemetery, Holbrook.
Services
Visitation
- April 23, 2026
- 4:00 pm-7:00 pm
- Hurley Funeral Home
127 S. Franklin St.
Holbrook, MA 02343
Funeral Service
- April 24, 2026
- 11:00 am
- St. Joseph Church, 153 South Franklin St., Holbrook, MA 02343
Interment
- Interment immediately following services
- Union Cemetery, Union St. Holbrook, MA 02343
Uncle Joe, I’m gonna miss seeing your face and that ornery smile of yours. You have meant so much to so many people. When we die, we become stories. You will live forever with the stories we will all share for years to come. Allow me to end this by saying that I have never had a better cannoli in all my life, than the ones you made. Love you Uncle Joe…
To all my Bova family
Words cannot express the sorrow deep in my heart I share with you all. Joey and I are the same age so I have so many wonderful memories growing up especially. Always giving was his whole life no matter what or who. I will never forget all he gave of himself even just for me and Francesca. We had so much fun working the bakery even though he was teaching good work ethics and responsibilities to her unknowingly. Never forget 9 Glen!
Rest in peace my sweet cousin.
Cuzn Nina (and Francesca)
RIP Joe. Prayers to the Bova Family. Jim G.
Such sad news. My heart goes out to all. He always had a big smile.
Steve (Otis) and I send our condolences to the entire Bova Family. Prayers with with you all.
Joe we had alot of good times sitting in the basement on that big leather sofa when we We’re Young. u always had time for everyone if they needed to talk u would listen u my friend will be missed for ever
Always remember Joey in class . He gave me a run for my money but I always enjoyed him. When I became assistant Principal he told me to treat his son the way I treated him. Once he passed Italian bakery thru my office widow and I will never forget his smile. He was a great guy.
Jack Boyce
My heart goes to an old friend Diana, so sorry for your loss. I remember you & Joe cruising in the convertible. My condolences to the Bova family.
To Joe, Chandra and the entire Bova family.
I send my deepest condolences to your family on the loss of your Dad.
May he R.I.P. In the Arms of Our Father in Heaven.
GOD Bless his family and friends.
Love from The Rock Family
Xo
I grew up with Joey later night when he had bakery we go in at 2 am 3 am after clubs..I remember he’s kindness he build bunkers for my son & daughter when I lived on Salem st..R.I.P.my. friend fly high with the Angels 😇 ✨️ 💖🙏🥲💔
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Diana and your family.
RIP Joe ❤️🙏
My condolences to Joeys family , we had some great times growing up in the north end, rest easy old friend🙏🏻
I knew Joey from a young age, we grew up together many times at the grove lake skating, playing hockey with the many many kids in the area. Sorry to hear of his passing. A man a good nature and generosity