Recognizing a Life Well Lived: 
 Dr. Joseph Digati Gullo

Joe was born on August 28, 1920 in Cleveland, OH and died at his care home in Tucson, AZ on April 18, 2023 at the age of 102 and 8 months. 

Joe was predeceased by the love of his life, Jean, after being her primary caregiver for many years. Also predeceased by his Sicilian parents, Nunzio and Lucrezia “Grace” Gullo and 3 Brothers and their spouses (Pete & Nora, John & Eleanor, and Roy & Alice) and 2 sisters and their spouses (Rose & Jim Loria and Grace & Bill Taylor). 

Although Joe had no children of his own, his marriage to Jean provided him with a ready-made family including his beloved granddaughter, Melanie Schiell. He was honored and respected by many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and even some great, great ones. To Joe, family was EVERYTHING. When asked: “Who are the most influential people in your life?” Joe’s response was: “My family most of all. It was where I learned patience, tolerance, acceptance of things that cannot be changed, responsibility, sense of duty, love of music, communication skills, service to those in need, seeing beauty in art and nature.”

Joe was an active participant in his Tucson Estates community well into his late 90’s playing his favorite classical music at the local radio station every week, driving around the community in his new 2016 Mustang, and waving to the crowd in the annual Memorial Day parade as a valued World War II veteran. He was honorably discharged from the US Navy in 1946 and a proud member of the American Legion and Amvets. 

Joe was well-educated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (USC, 1951), a Master of Arts in Counseling (U of Texas, 1962), and a Doctor of Philosophy of Education (U of Texas, 1965). 

He served as an Associate Professor of Psychology of Education at University of Arizona (1965 –1985) where he was an Instructor, Lecturer, Counselor, and Psychologist.

Joe was an active participant and Board member in the Theosophical Society attending annual events, writing literature, and giving lectures. Joe and his wife Jean created the “For the Love of Life” magazine for the Theosophical Order of Service which spearheaded service projects within the US. He was also a member of the Crotona Institute of Theosophy. 

Joe was a member of significant professional affiliations throughout his life including American Educational Research Association, Phi Delta Kappa, Kappa Delta Pi, American Personnel & Guidance Association, American Association of Humanistic Psychology. In addition, he was generous Supporter of philanthropic organizations such as the Sierra Club, the YMCA, Cerebral Palsy, and Veteran’s organizations. 

He had many avocations including nutrition as a faithful life-long vegetarian resulting from his love of animals, photography, art, and music. 

At Joe’s request, he and his wife Jean are together again, resting in peace near the ocean and mountains of Santa Barbara, CA

A family reunion commemorating Joe’s life is planned for Sunday, May 28, 2023 1:00—5:00 PM at Tony K’s Bar & Grille, 841 West Bagley Road, Berea, OH.