Joseph Anthony Viola "Joe V", age 51, of Norwell and Scituate, the beloved son of Marie F. (Horigan) and the late Anthony B. Viola, passed away surrounded by family  and friends at his loving group home, Road To Responsibility, in Scituate, MA. Cherished brother of Laura May and husband John of Foxborough, MA, and John Viola and wife Kristi of Hamilton, MA. Loving uncle of Jonathan and Michaela May.

Throughout his years, Joe had an enthusiasm and vigor for life. He enjoyed many sports and outdoor activities.  He was a proud member of the Special Olympics and competed for years in Softball, Track & Field, and Senior Sports, and was awarded many medals and honors for his efforts.  Joe spent many years attending Camp Fatima, where he enjoyed soccer, basketball and swimming. He was a proud member of the Strikers Bowling Team, for which he gained many trophies and awards for his wins, and also received honors for Team Spirit and Good Sportsmanship. Joe was also a member of the Friendship Club of Norwell, the ARC of the South Shore, and Road to Responsibility.

Joe was a lover of music, particularly of Elvis, show tunes, and Christmas carols, and would joyfully sing along any chance he could get. He liked theater, musicals, action movies, and comedy.  Joe enjoyed dancing and going out to dinner with his friends from his group home.  He enjoyed being funny and telling jokes, and his happiness, warmth and excitement was often contagious to those around him.  Joe was a kind friend to animals and a lover of nature, and enjoyed many wonderful days along the shores and beaches of Massachusetts throughout his life.

When you met Joe, you made a life-long friend.  He had a unique gift in reaching out to others.  He was always ready to help others in need, and was an outstanding example of unselfish and charitable behavior.  He was a loving friend to those that knew him, and served as a shining example for many in the community.  He volunteered at Father Bill's, helped deliver Meals on Wheels, and was well known on the South Shore for his kind character and loving ways.

Visiting hours will be held on Sunday, March 13, 2016 from 2-6 pm in McNamara-Sparrell Funeral Home, 30 Central St. (off Rt 123, near State Police Barracks), Norwell Center. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, March 14, 2016 at 11 am in St. Helen Church, 383 Washington Street (Rt 53), Norwell. Interment Washington Street Cemetery, Norwell. In lieu of flowers, donations to honor Joe may be made to Road To Responsibility, 1831 Ocean St., Marshfield, MA. 02050 or to the Massachusetts Special Olympics, 512 Forest Street, Marlborough, MA 01752.