I had the honor of caring for Joseph for several years while he was on dialysis. He was a gentile soul whom I so enjoyed sharing stories with. I know he is in a better place now but he'll always have a special place in my heart .🙏🏻

Dear uncle Joe we just want to tell you how much we love you and will miss you the DeCaro's, and Tennessee thanks for everything God Father

My sincere condolences to the family of Professor Joseph Tursi. I was so fortunate to have had Joseph Tursi as my Italian language studies supervisor while I completed my student teaching activity at Commack North High School in the early 1970's. In his capacity as supervisor, he had to observe me teach in the classroom. I remember how anxious I felt before and during the lesson. At the end of his first observation, he sat with me and reviewed the results. He taught me the importance of a lesson plan and how to time each activity in order to make the class lively and keep students engaged. When he observed me the second time, my teaching technique had improved and he congratulated me. Professor Tursi wanted his students to succeed. Everything I learned from him, I employed throughout my teaching career. Recently as I went through old files, I found the notes from his initial observation. Even after all these years his notes and teaching method recommendations are as valid today and they were in 1973. Grazie di cuore. Josephine Esposito Spina

Joe made such a difference for colleagues and students. His guidance and kindness for me, as a new faculty member in the '80s at SUNY Stony Brook, was ever helpful. His textbooks and methods informed generations of students, and will continue to do so. My deepest condolences to the Tursi family and his closest friends in later life. Leslie Morgan

Dr. Tursi's radiant smile and wonderful sense of humor were contagious. He was, by far, the best educator I have ever had the privilege of knowing. May you rest in peace!

I will miss my gentle friend. "I'm ok if you're ok"

Our family has wonderful memories of beautiful times spent together with the Tursi family. Dr. Tursi always brought sunshine wherever he went. He made everyone in his presence feel "at home". His smile was contagious and his personality, his intelligence and his sense of humor brought so much joy to us and to every person he encountered. Our hearts go out to all of you. We are certain that you are all so very proud knowing what a profound impact he had on all those that had the honor and privilege of knowing him. We wish you peace at this most difficult time. With deepest sympathy and love, The Cincinnato Family

Dr.Tursi, a true gentleman in every way! He was an inspiration to me. He was a mentor thru my college years as well as my teaching coach. I am now retired and feel so privileged to have known Dr. Tursi for almost my whole lifetime. May he rest in peace along with his loved ones! ❤️ Doreen Murphy (Magnani)

Some people can light up the room; Dr. Tursi did this in the classroom! He was a scholar, a gentleman, an incredible professor, and the most humble human being. I'm blessed to have had him as a professor. He will be missed tremendously. The SUNY Stony Brook class of '86 will remember you fondly. Baci, Therese Kennedy-Ghessi

Joe built an outstanding and enduring program in World Language Education at Stony Brook University. His memory lives on in all of the students and teachers he helped to educate.

Uncle Joe, you were a wonderful individual who always had a smile on your face and a kind word for everyone. Be sure to give Aunt Viola a hug from me, and enjoy your days in eternity together. 💕

A man whose contagious smile was one of his many gifts. A magister magistrorum, a mentor who inspired me and countless others, will remain indelible in the realm of world language leaning . A caring friend and colleague whose legacy has touched and will continue to influence language teaching methodology. I feel honored to have crossed paths with my friend Joe Tursi. May he rest in peace.

Although he retired before I came to Stony Brook University, Joe was always supportive and encouraging when we saw each other at campus events. He had a good heart and a great sense of humor. He was truly a signore.

Dear Joe, Stacy & The Tursi family. We are truly sorry for your loss.. May you keep the beautiful memories of your loved one in your heart, for there they will forever remain. Tony & Elena Decanio

Joe was a true titan in his profession. A leader, mentor, innovator, visionary, and a kind and thoughtful man. He provided support for generations of educators. Our profession was fortunate to be enriched by his work and his dedication. John Webb

Rest peacefully Uncle Joe...you have always been someone that you can't not smile when talking about you..thank you for all the wonderful memories... especially all the Christmas Eves....love you♥️...hug Aunt Viola for me ....my Mom and Dad...everyone ♥️

Professor Tursi, our beloved Uncle Joe, was always an incredible uncle who became my "buon amico" as we both aged and shared many lunches at his favorite restaurants trading stories of travels and adventures in Italy. He was a kind and wonderful man who leaves us many terrific memories. He will be missed. Tom Connelly