Joseph Wilbur Smith, Jr.

Joseph Wilbur Smith, Jr., age 61, of Wilmington, DE passed away suddenly at home on September 27th, 2026. Born in Wilmington, Joe was the son of Gloria (Spry) Leon-Dastous and the late Joseph W. Smith, Sr.

Joe graduated from Christiana High School and went on to begin a lifelong career with Teamsters Local 326. Over the course of more than 40 years, he served in many capacities, including as a driver, union officer as the Secretary/Treasurer beginning in January 2001, and ultimately as President of Teamsters Local 326 in August 2012 and continuing in that position until his passing. Joe took great pride in his work and was known for his strong work ethic, dedication, and commitment to those he worked alongside. 

He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters for many years, serving as Assistant to the Chairman of the Express Division for 15 years. Joe was also Secretary of National DHL Committee, Eastern Region ABF Freight Representative, National Negotiating Committee member for Freight, Car-Haul and DHL, and Sergeant of Arms for International Brotherhood of Teamsters Conventions. 

Joe was a one-of-a-kind and larger-than-life person. He also had a kind and caring heart. He loved being a Teamster, was very patriotic and respected and cherished the American Flag. Joe was a loving son, brother, father and uncle. He will be dearly missed by all those who knew and loved him.

His spirits were always up, and he lived his life to the fullest every day. Our hearts are shattered by his passing. We take Comfort in knowing he is now with his precious son, Bret Joseph, and his Dad.

Joe was predeceased by his son, Bret Joseph Francisco Smith in 2002, and his father, Joseph Wilbur Smith, Sr. in 2024. He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Gloria Leon Dastous and Andy Dastous; his siblings and their spouses, Theresa and David Haas, Louise and Dan Hyatt, and Jeffrey Smith; many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday October 7th from 5 P.M. to 8 P.M. at the Mealey Funeral Home, 2509 Limestone Road Wilmington, DE 19808. An additional viewing will be held the following morning, Thursday October 8th, from 9:30 A.M to 11 A.M. with a funeral liturgy to begin at 11 A.M. at Holy Angels Catholic Church, 82 Possum Park Road Newark, DE 19711. Burial will follow in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Ashland.