The Reverend Monsignor Joseph Raymond Sobiesiak, age 80, of Beverly Hills, FL, passed into eternal life on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, while under hospice care following a lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer. Born in Harrisburg, PA, on July 13, 1945, he was the son of the late Sigmund and Marion (Kustay) Sobiesiak.
Monsignor Sobiesiak was a retired priest of the Diocese of Allentown, who relocated to the Diocese of St. Petersburg in 2016, making his home in Citrus County, where for the past ten years he provided assistance to local parishes in both English and Spanish.
“Monsignor Joe,” as he was affectionately known, was ordained for the Diocese of Allentown in May 15, 1976. During his nearly 50 years of priestly ministry, he served in parishes throughout his home diocese, making occasional visits to Citrus County beginning in 2011, assisting with Masses and confessions during vacation breaks until his permanent move to Florida five years later.
In recent years, although he regularly used a walker and remained seated during Mass, Monsignor Sobiesiak continued to offer a faithful helping hand to parishes throughout the Citrus deanery for as long as his health allowed. He was a familiar presence at deanery meetings and diocesan events. He relished the camaraderie of gathering with his brother priests, often serving a steady support and mentor to them. Many parishioners in both Pennsylvania and Florida fondly remember his gentle manner, kind smile, and friendly nature.
Monsignor Sobiesiak is survived by his three brothers Sigmund, William, and John, as well as several nieces and nephews.
There will be three Funeral Masses for Monsignor Sobiesiak in the parishes where he frequently assisted in Citrus County. The days, times, and locations are as follows:
Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 6:00 pm
St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 7040 S Suncoast Blvd., Homosassa, FL
Thursday, February 26, 2026, 10:00 am
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 1460 W Elizabeth Place, Citrus Springs FL
Thursday, February 26, 2026, 3:00 pm
Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 6 Roosevelt Blvd., Beverly Hills, FL
Following cremation, his urn will be transferred at a later date to Pennsylvania for additional funeral mass prior to burial. Chas. E. Davis Funeral Home with Crematory in Inverness, FL has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Please keep Monsignor Sobiesiak’s family members and loved ones in your kind thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
“Well done, good and faithful servant… Come, share your master’s joy.” ~ Matthew 25:21
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I’m a snow-bird that was fortunate enough to find St Thomas the Apostle Church which I attend weekly. Monsignor Joe was the highlight of the week. I enjoyed his masses and especially his parting “words of wisdom” at the end of Mass. May God rest his soul!!!
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