Joseph Rocco Zappa Jr.

On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Joseph Rocco Zappa Jr. passed away at the age of 84 after a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

Joe was born on June 30, 1941, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In 1963, he married his high school sweetheart, Roberta “Cookie” Zappa, and together they shared 61 years of love and partnership.

After graduating from West Virginia University, Joe and Cookie began their family in Pittsburgh before relocating to Suriname, South America, where Joe started his career with Aluminum Company of America (ALCOA). The family later settled in Maryville, Tennessee, where Joe built both a home and a legacy. In 1972, he founded Joseph Construction Company, which remains one of the premier commercial construction companies in East Tennessee today, thanks to the foundation Joe established more than five decades ago.

While Joe was known as a respected businessman, his true success was defined by his values. Hard work, integrity, laughter, and family were at the heart of everything he did. He believed that meals should always be shared at the table, that a Manhattan at 5 p.m. was a must, and that every day should end with laughter and meaningful conversation.

Joe had a unique gift for humor, often making sharp yet hilarious remarks about those around him — usually just within earshot — always followed by his signature phrase, “Yeah, baby.” His humor, warmth, and zest for life were infectious, making every room feel brighter. He was a generous soul, always making others feel like family, and he cherished the close friendships he had, often referring to his closest friends as brothers.

A true builder in every sense, Joe was a master craftsman, whether he was constructing businesses, creating custom furniture, preparing meals from scratch, or crafting his famous cutting boards. He found joy in working with his hands, often with Andre Bocelli playing softly in the background, a glass of red wine, and family nearby.

Above all, Joe took immense pride in his family. He was especially devoted to his grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Pappap.” Through his actions, he instilled in them the importance of perseverance, morals, and the value of both family and friends.

Joe is survived his daughter, Kelly Thompson; his sons, Chris Zappa (Kristen) and Jamie Zappa (Joni); and his beloved grandchildren, Davis, Kelsey, Harrison, Tad, Andrew, Rocco, and bonus grandchildren, Jacob and Jessa. He is also survived by a large extended family and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Roberta "Cookie" Zappa, and his cherished son-in-law, Dean Thompson.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held in June. In place of flowers, please consider a donation to the Dean L. Thompson Foundation, which supports various nonprofit organizations, with a portion of proceeds benefiting ALS research and support.

Condolences may be shared at Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com.