Joseph P. Gilchrest, 76, of Middletown, husband of Susan (Messina) Gilchrest, died Monday (July 18, 2022) at Middlesex Hospital.

He was born in Lawrence, MA, the son of the late Frank S. Gilchrest Sr. and Marie (Garrity) Gilchrest. As a young man, Joe was a chef at the Nutmegger Restaurant.  He then changed his career path and became a foreman at Miniature Nut and Screw Dicast in Newington. He eventually retired from Custom Metal Crafters, Inc. in Newington.

In addition to his wife of 55 years, he is survived by his daughter, Melissa Cody, and her husband, Michael of Richmond, VA; grandchildren, Makayla and Michael Jr., and brother Frank Gilchrest Jr. He was predeceased by his son, Paul Gilchrest, who oddly enough, passed on the same date 10 years ago.

Joe enjoyed engaging in conversation with family, friends, and even strangers. He was a good listener too. He was a loyal fan of the Red Sox, the New York Giants, and an avid fan of the UConn Women's Basketball team. Joe loved dancing and music, especially Motown. Additionally, Joe loved to travel with his wife: their favorite trips were to Cozumel to see their daughter get married and to Italy with their friends, the Goundies. Most of all, Joe enjoyed spending time with his family, even if it was over face time.

Joe loved his friends and family and they loved him back. He was a loyal, generous, and kind person. He was always the person you could depend on no matter the situation. Joe was a phenomenal son-in-law, brother-in-law, and father-in-law. Joe had a wonderfully sarcastic sense of humor and always managed to make people laugh. He was also an excellent cook. From his beef cutlets to his baked stuffed shrimp, Joe's culinary skills were cherished by all who knew him. Most of all, thanksgiving will never be the same without his signature gravy.

Joe's passing is a huge loss to those who loved him.

In lieu of flowers those who wish, may make a contribution to the CT Humane Society.

His Funeral Liturgy will be held Monday July 25, 2022 at 11 a.m. at St. Sebastian Church, Middletown.  Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Middletown. Friends may call at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St., Middletown on Monday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.