In July 2017, the Atlanta Hospitality community lost one of its own… Joseph Frank “Joe” Mascari, Sr.

He was 95. Born on August 30, 1921 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Joe was the fifth of six children of Baldasarro and Antoinina Mascari, who had immigrated to the United States from Sicily.

After proudly serving in the Army in World War II in Africa, he returned home and owned and operated numerous appliance, furniture, and record stores in Pennsylvania and California. He purchased a carpet company while in California and later relocated to Atlanta with Barwick Carpet Mills. He remained in the industry for over 50 years, owning and operating several mills and being associated with many of the largest manufacturers in the industry. Joe was a pioneer and icon in the industry.

He was a longtime member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church, where he served as an usher. Joe leaves behind an extraordinary legacy, a loving family, and a wealth of friends who will miss him dearly. He is survived by his wife, Judith Pittman Mascari; children, Joseph Mascari, Jr. (Diane), William Mascari (Teresa), James Mascari, Jean Smith (Douglas), Beverly Wood (Dean), Wendy Cohen (Leonard), David Wilson (Danielle), and Kristina Chinn (Carson); 20 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and daughter-in-law, Charlotte Mascari. He is preceded in death by his son, Gerard Mascari and daughter, Betty Catherine Mascari.

Joe and his wife, Judy were very involved with the beginning of the NEWH Atlanta chapter. As a memorial to the integrity of Joe’s influence in industry at large, the Atlanta Chapter Founders have would like to invite you to show your appreciation by helping to fund a scholarship in his name – The NEWH JOE MASCARI SCHOLARSHIP FUND – you can help by contributing by clicking here or calling the NEWH, Inc. Office.

This scholarship will be administered by the NEWH/Atlanta Chapter.