Joseph Vedella, 61, of New York, passed away at his daughter's home in Indian Head, MD on December 9, 2012. Joseph was born January 25, 1951 in the Bronx, NY to William Vedella and Clara Catalano.

Joseph was predeceased by William Vedella Sr., Clara Catalano Vedella, William Vedella Jr., & Anthony Vedella.

He is survived by his daughters Caroline Gonzalez and Lisa Gunther; son in law Garnell Gunther Jr.; six grandchildren: Whitney Jazel Vedella, Garnell Gunther III, Arthur Cody Gonzalez, Sophia Gabriella Gonzalez, Michelle Alexandria Gonzalez, Caroline Marie Gonzalez and 1 great-grandchild: Anthony Joseph Hansley.

Joseph was Manager of Homeless Ministries, for the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church in New York City. No matter where he went, he was always reaching out to help anybody he could. He was the true epitome of "Paying it Forward". He enjoyed life! In his spare time, he enjoyed telling stories that taught lessons, watching Law & Order, eating cake, going to amusement parks, going on vacations, reaching out to the homeless community and going out to eat.

Arrangements are being handled by Brinsfield-Echols Funeral Home, P.A. 30195 Three Notch Road, Charlotte Hall, MD 20622.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to contribute may send donations to the "Joe Vedella Fund", which will provide food, shelter, health care, counseling services, transportation and social services to the homeless served by Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church in New York City. Those who want to contribute to the fund can send a check to the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church Attn: Outreach, with the Joe Vedella Fund listed on the subject line. (7 West 55th Street, New York, NY 10019).