Joseph Mario Vas Dias, 96, of Covington, Virginia, died December 30, 2019.

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 52 years, Raynell Vas Dias (nee Armentrout).

He was born August 19, 1922.

Joe served his country in World War II as a sergeant in the campaign to liberate Italy. A proud member of the 5th Army, 338th Infantry, 85th Custer Division, he marched into Rome in June 1944.

Joe was raised from the age of two in Hot Springs. As a teenager he worked at The Homestead as a personal groom for Mrs. Ingals' horses, often riding in shows for her. He also worked at the tennis courts, and as a lifeguard at the indoor pool.

After the war, Joe attended college in New York City, while working at the Waldorf Astoria for his father, who was the comptroller. Back in Covington, he worked for Dressler Motors, then Hercules for 20 years as a supervisor. Upon retirement, he went to work for the Forestry Service at Lake Moomaw, Gathright Dam for 15 years.

Joe's many accomplishments for the community of Covington included participation in the Memorial Day parades on Main St., being a Lifetime member of VFW Post 1033 serving in the colour guard at many local funerals. He was a member of the Moose Club, a supporter of the Alleghany Historical Society during the refurbishment of the train depot, the new YMCA in Low Moor, and volunteered for years for The Red Cross. He served over 50 years as usher for Sacred Heart Catholic Church and truly loved his fellow parishioners.

Later in life Joe had many happy adventures with his friend and companion, Kitty Fitzgerald. Joe held a special place in his heart for Sister Andrea and all of The Benedictine Sisters of Bristow, Virginia.

Joe was recently described by an old co-worker as "standing for everything good and decent".

He is survived by his brother, Richard (Bernadette) of Kempton PA; sister, Joann Thelan (Bud) of Garden City NY, and many nieces and nephews.

He was very close to Tim, Cody, and Brian. He was predeceased by his brothers, James Samuel (Sally) and Carl Henry (Ellen), and niece, Pearl Tingler (Vernon). He was a Godfather to Susan Vas Dias Sommers and Kathi Tice Vas Dias.

The family would like to thank the following people who helped Joe so much: Penny, Joey, Casey, Tiffany, Samantha, Donna, and those too numerous to mention here.

Burial will be graveside Thursday, January 10, 2018 at Alleghany Memorial Park Mausoleum at 1:00 p.m.

The Arritt Funeral Home, Covington, Virginia, is in charge of arrangements.