Following is the obituary for JOSEPH G. CROSBY, Jr., submitted for the family by the Harding Funeral Home.

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Born Aug. 19, 1940, Joseph G. Crosby, Jr., slipped the surly bonds of Earth one last time, and passed away on Jan. 24, 2023, after a brief illness.

Raised outside Philadelphia, Joe entered the Navy as an officer after graduating from LaSalle in 1962, and it was while he was stationed in Puerto Rico that he met his wife of 55 years, Carmen I. Crosby (née Brau).  

They settled in Westport in 1969 and raised their family, which was the greatest joy of his life. Joe was a pilot with American Airlines, retiring as captain in August 2000. His favorite trips to fly were the ones that brought him home each night. His children would describe him as “the only pilot who actually doesn’t enjoy traveling.”

Besides flying, Joe developed a love for sailboats, and purchased his first in 1976. As the years went by, the boats got bigger and the family summer cruises grew in length as well. They cruised up the Sound to Block Island, Martha’s Vineyard and even as far as Nantucket.

At home, Joe loved the daily routines that he and Carmen created over the years — mornings spent discussing The New York Times; afternoons watching the many birds, squirrels, chipmunks and ducks that graced the yard; and evenings in the living room with cocktails and snacks. His favorite activities were watching sunsets on the boat and spending time with the grandchildren, whom he loved dearly.

Joe is survived by his wife, Carmen; daughter, Tracy Crosby (and son-in-law Peter Vath); son, Joe Crosby (and daughter-in-law Tricia Mulligan), and grandchildren, Caleb Vath, Samantha Crosby, Leah Vath and Ryan Crosby.

Carmen and the family wish to express their sincere appreciation to all the healthcare professionals who participated in his care at Bridgeport Hospital, especially the Progressive Care Unit, Vitas and the seventh-floor team.

The family will receive visitors on Feb. 4, at 11 a.m., followed by a service at noon, in the Harding Funeral Home, 210 Post Road East. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Bridgeport Rescue Mission in Joe’s name.