Joseph Elias Ezzie April 9, 1939 – March 9, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing on March 9, 2025 of Joseph Elias Ezzie, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, professor, and friend. Born on April 9, 1939, in Kherbet Khanafar, Lebanon, Joe lived a big and full life defined by love, wisdom, and an unwavering dedication to his family, faith, students, and community.

He is preceded in death by his cherished parents, Elias and Julia, and his dear sister, Sonya. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 44 years, Rosette; his devoted daughters, Nadine, Nicole (Chad Russell), and Natalie (Mohamed Nasser); and the light of his life, his granddaughter, Isla, who adoringly called him "Jiddi". He is also survived by his beloved brothers, Emil (Renee), Tony (Eva), and Michael (Joan), as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

With a deep desire to further his education, Joe immigrated to the U.S. in 1960 where he was embraced by the Brothers of Christian Instruction of Walsh College and enrolled as the school's first international student. After completing his graduate studies at the Catholic University of America, Joe returned to Walsh at the invitation of the Brothers as a professor of economics. For the next 49 years, he influenced thousands of students with his teaching, mentorship, and deep belief in the power of education. He was honored as Outstanding Educator of the Year five times—so many, in fact, that the university renamed the award after him upon his retirement.

The only thing that mattered more to Joe than teaching was his family, his greatest pride and joy. They were everything to him. He loved and adored them unconditionally and nothing made him happier than simply being with them. Yet his bountiful heart still had endless capacity to spread his love and joy beyond his family to all those he met.

Joe was a proud member of the Canton Kirby Club and the Stark County Lebanese-American Association. He was also a devoted golfer, a man whose love for the game was matched only by his ability to tell a great story. His sense of humor was legendary, his laughter infectious, and his smile could light up any room. He made the world brighter simply by being in it.

Joe's passing is a heartbreaking loss, but his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched. His legacy is one of love, wisdom, kindness, generosity, and devout faith in God. We ask that you remember him for the way his life was lived, and for the profound impact he had on all those who knew him.

Calling hours will be on Thursday, March 20, 2025 from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the Rossi Family Funeral Home, and on Friday, March 21, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. -11:30 a.m. at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian burial will begin in the church at 12 noon, with Joe's dear friend, Father Patrick Manning as Celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Joseph E. Ezzie Legacy Endowment at Walsh University, in honor of his lifelong dedication to education and mentorship. Donations can be sent to Walsh University, Office of Philanthropy, 2020 East Maple St., NW, North Canton, OH 44720 or at http://www.walsh.edu/ezzie-scholarship .

The Joseph E. Ezzie Legacy Endowment
2020 East Maple St., NW, North Canton OH 44720
Web: https://www.givecampus.com/schools/WalshUniversity/the-joseph-e-ezzie-legacy-endowment