Joseph Louis Soltis December 20, 1948 – April 27, 2025 Joseph Louis Soltis, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends. Born on December 20, 1948, to Joseph and Evelyn Soltis in Trenton, New Jersey, Joe grew up in New Egypt, New Jersey, where he attended New Egypt Elementary School and graduated from Allentown High School in 1967. It was there he met the love of his life, Nancy Soltis — his high school sweetheart. Joe and Nancy married in 1971, the same year he began his journey in law enforcement. Following his graduation, Joe proudly served in the United States Navy for six years. Upon completing his military service, he enrolled in the police academy in June of 1971 and went on to have a distinguished career, rising to the rank of State Police Lieutenant with the New Jersey State Police, before retiring in 1999. In 2001, Joe and his family relocated to St. Augustine, Florida, where he embraced a well-earned retirement filled with the simple joys he cherished most — kayaking, swimming, spending time outdoors, and creating countless memories with his family. A passionate baseball fan, Joe loved cheering for his beloved New York Yankees. His love for animals was equally strong, especially for his faithful dog Jake, who was his constant companion. Joe’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of over 50 years, Nancy Soltis; his three daughters, Deanna Villa (Danny) of Port Orange, FL, Nicole Maline (James) of Brunswick, GA, and Amanda Sanders (Chris) of St. Augustine, FL; his cherished grandchildren, Victoria Geiger (Tyler), Liam and Elliott Maline, and Chris and Cooper Sanders; and his adored great-grandchildren, Nora and Isla Geiger. He is also survived by his beloved sister, Lois Cucinotta of Trenton, NJ, and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Patricia and Douglas Elliott. Joe leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew him. His warm heart, steadfast loyalty, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life gathering on July 30, 2025 from 10 AM to 12 AM at Tilghman Funeral Home located at 52 Main Street, New Egypt, NJ 08533. Interment will take place at Assumption Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in his honor to the N.J. Former Troopers Heritage Foundation