Joseph Edward Heller, Sr.

Joseph Edward Heller, Sr., age 85, of Bel Air, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 2, 2026.

Born in Narberth, Pennsylvania, Joe was the beloved son of the late George Bernard Heller and Grace Margaret (Callahan) Heller.

Joe was a devoted husband, father, uncle, grandfather, brother, and friend whose greatest joy came from his family. He treasured being part of the lives of those he loved and was happiest when surrounded by family, sharing in their milestones, accomplishments, and everyday moments.

After a successful sales career, Joe began a second chapter of community service as a school bus driver for Harford County, a role he held for 20 years. The job suited him well, keeping him active, connected to his community, and involved in young people's lives.

One of the most enduring ways Joe showed his love was through his never-ending commitment to supporting his children and grandchildren in everything they did. He rarely missed an opportunity to be there, whether that meant sitting courtside for a tennis match, along the sidelines of a soccer field, in the stands at an ice hockey or baseball game, or in the audience for a singing concert or drama department production. At any given time, he could be found cheering someone on, applauding a performance, or simply making sure they knew that Pops was there. He took tremendous pride not simply in what his family accomplished, but in being present to share those moments with them. His children and grandchildren always knew they had one of their biggest and most devoted fans in their corner.

Joe had many interests of his own as well. He enjoyed puzzles and all kinds of sports, and he especially treasured the time these interests allowed him to share with family and friends.

Music, friendship, and his Irish heritage also held a special place in Joe’s heart. He was a member of the Irishmen’s Chorale, Amhránaí Na Gaeilge, where his love of music and his Irish roots brought him many years of enjoyment, meaningful experiences, and lasting friendships.

Joe’s faith was another important part of his life. He was a parishioner of St. Margaret and St. Ignatius parishes, and his Catholic faith remained a source of strength and meaning throughout his life.

More than anything, Joe will be remembered for his devotion to the people he loved. His presence at family gatherings, his pride in his children and grandchildren, and the countless ways he showed up for the people who mattered to him created memories that his family will carry with them always.

In addition to his parents, Joseph was preceded in death by his brother, George Heller, and his sister, Kathleen Coppola.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Margaret (Peggy) Heller; his son, Joe (wife: Susan) Heller, Jr.; his daughter, Peggy (husband: Mark) Miller; and his cherished grandchildren, Brendan Heller, Clare Heller, Colin (wife: Kara) Miller, Kathleen Heller, Ryan (fiancé: Alexis Strobel) Miller, and Sean Heller. He is also survived by many extended family members and dear friends who will remember him with love and cherish the many memories they shared.

In place of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be made in Joe’s memory to Guiding Eyes for the Blind, which provides expertly trained guide dogs to individuals who are blind or visually impaired, or to The ALS Association, which supports people living with ALS and advances research toward effective treatments and a cure. Both organizations support causes that are especially meaningful to the Heller family.

Donations may be made online through Guiding Eyes for the Blind at GuidingEyes.org or The ALS Association at ALS.org, where donors may designate their contribution as a gift in memory of Joseph Edward Heller, Sr.