Joseph Langella was born on March 18, 1921 in Brooklyn, New York to Italian Immigrants Sabatino & Theresa Langella.  

After the birth of Joseph’s two sisters Rosie & Sarah, Sabitino Langella perished in a fatal accident.  Shortly thereafter,

Theresa Langella was remarried to Carmelo Messina also an Italian Immigrant who recently lost his wife.  They went on 

to have 4 more children as follows: Frank Messina, Matty Messina, Louie Messina and Philly Messina.  

“Butch” as he was known by his family and friends grew up on Columbia
Street in downtown Brooklyn here he quickly became know for his boxing 
skills (especially his left hook).  He served in the United States Army in 
Iran during World War II.   In 1950 he met Roberta Greany, a beautiful 
young woman of Irish decent and they were married in 1953 and resided 
in Bay Ridge Brooklyn. In 1955 they had their first of six children 
Dolores,(who passed away from cancer in 1995.)  They went on to have 
five more children; William, Susan, Roberta, Joseph, and Steven. 

In the early 1970’s Butch retired from his job on Pier 11 in Red Hook 
Brooklyn where he worked as a Long-Shoreman.  Butch will be 
remembered as a fun-loving father and friend who brought much 
laughter and joy to all who loved him.  He had a passion for boxing, 
cooking  and singing Italian American Classics.  His was especially 

well-known for his Napolitan -style meatballs and sauce, and delighted

in cooking for hours for his family and friends.  Butch could be found at 

all the family events, singing his repertoire of songs, including 

“I Am Jealous of You, Darling” by Jerry Vale, and “I Left My Heart in San Francisco (or “Fran Sancisco”, as he

always sang it), by Tony Bennett.  In the latter years of his life, Butch became very aware of his need for a 

personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  For further information about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ 

please click "the promise" link. Joseph “Butch” Langella will be greatly missed by his family and friends and will 

always have a special place in their hearts.

He is survived by the following; 

Sons; Billy, Joseph & Steven Langella.

Daughters; Susan Elazm, Roberta Langella & Manuela Gallagher.

Grandchildren;  Jasmine & Joseph Elazm.

Brothers: Matty, Louie & Philly Messina.  

And a host of other relatives and friends.