Joseph "Joeboy" Howlett Jr., age 60, passed suddenly on June 1, 2026. Born in 1965 to Rita (nee Henderson) and Joseph A. Howlett Sr., Joey grew up in South Philadelphia and spent his final years as a New Jersey resident.

If you were lucky enough to know Joey, you knew that a mirror could hold an entire universe. Born with diverse abilities, Joey experienced the world in his own beautiful way. Finding joy in places many people never think to look. His beloved handheld mirror was rarely far from his side. You could often find Joey with it in his hand, hoping to catch the sunlight and reflect it on the ceiling or, if he was feeling mischievous, directly into your eyes. He could spend hours captivated by the dancing reflections, as if they were putting on a show just for him.

Joey's heart was full of simple wonders. He loved stars, Christmas trees, balloons, ferris wheels, merry-go-rounds, dogs and horses, every one of which he named Harry. He loved fire engines, helicopters, and motorcycles, and he delighted in building with blocks just as much as enthusiastically sending them flying. Summers meant time in the backyard pool, making waves with his inner tube and soaking up every bit of sunshine. He loved showing people how quickly he could turn his head, then waiting for their reaction with a smile that made everyone laugh.

He had a language all his own. Those who loved him knew the meaning behind every look, grin, and familiar phrase. When something displeased him, he'd announce, "I'll frake my eye," drawing the familiar chorus of amused concern from family who knew exactly what he meant. And when he wanted to express affection, the sweetest thing Joey could say was simply, "Lova you."

No one loved Joey more fiercely than his mother, Rita. She was his champion, his protector, and his constant comfort. While his family grieves his passing, there is peace in knowing he now rests beside the mother who devoted her life to him.

Joey taught everyone around him to celebrate small victories, find wonder in ordinary things, and recognize that a life does not need to be ordinary to be extraordinary.

He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Rita and Joseph A. Howlett Sr. He is survived by his sisters Helen, Viola (Scott), Lori, Danielle, brother-in-law Scott, and his dear nieces and nephews Raina, E.J., Leo, and Scarlett.

Funeral services will be held privately.

Somewhere, the sun is shining brightly, a mirror is catching the light, and Joey is smiling. We will always lova you, Joeboy.

Condolences may be shared at www.weberfuneralhomeinc.com