ESPOSITO, Joseph William (81) of Valley Stream passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on June 10th in the very caring hands of staff at Mt. Sinai Hospital in Oceanside. A Queens native, proud first-generation Italian, and long serving member of the NYPD, Joe was beloved by many.

Born to Saverio and Mary Esposito, on December 28, 1943, in Ozone Park, Queens, Joseph, also lovingly referred to as Willie or Willie Boy, graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School. His deep Italian roots instilled in him a love and passion for cooking, inspiring him to pursue a butchering apprenticeship and from age 14 devoting his time to learning the art of pizza making. He later opened his own pizzeria called "Esposito's" on Bell Blvd.

In 1973, he began his career in the NYPD in the 5th Precinct and retired out of the 1st Precinct Task Force almost two decades later on '3/4's' after being injured on the job (as proudly displayed on his license plate). Joe was known for his cooking, his great storytelling, and his affinity for a good conspiracy theory. He enjoyed being around family and friends and was well known for hosting at least 50 or more people during his famous Christmas Eve and Palm Sunday dinners.

After Joseph was divorced from his first wife, Carol Ann Esposito, he married Joann Papa-Esposito in 1986. He was predeceased by Joann on Mother's Day in 2012. He is survived by his children; Maria A. Esposito, Danielle Esposito and partner Daniel Lopez, Jordan Esposito and partner Aaron Judge, Cassandra Gregory and husband Jason Gregory. He also leaves behind his 3 grandchildren; Eliana (5), Nicholas (4), and Juliette (2), who will miss their "Gramps" and "Pa" very much.