Joseph Alger Durso's Obituary
Joseph Alger Durso Jr., affectionately known as “Big Joe” or “Big Daddy,” passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026, at the age of 81.
Born on June 17, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, Joseph was the son of Joseph Alger Durso Sr. and Irene Miller. Although born in Michigan, he was raised in Alvin, Texas, where he spent the remainder of his life. Alvin was more than just his hometown—it was the community he loved and proudly called home.
Joseph attended Alvin High School before honorably serving his country in the United States Navy. He later began a long career with the Texas Department of Transportation, where he worked diligently until his retirement. He was a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for his family, a role he considered one of his greatest accomplishments.
Outside of work, Joseph enjoyed spending time with friends around the poker table and treasured the countless memories made at the family beach house with his beloved wife and family. He also generously volunteered his time with the Alvin Youth Livestock Arena & Association, giving back to the community that meant so much to him. Whether sharing stories, lending a helping hand, or making those around him laugh with his one-of-a-kind sense of humor, “Big Joe” left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Above all, he cherished his family and took immense pride in the lives he helped build.
Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Alger Durso Sr. and Irene Miller, and by his beloved son, Joseph Alger Durso III.
He is lovingly survived by his wife of 61 years, Caren Durso; his daughter, Cassie Achille, and her spouse, Nicolo Achille Jr.; his son, Jeffrey Durso and his spouse, Lauren Durso; his grandchildren, Shelby Achille, Joseph Alger Durso IV and his spouse, Kamryn Durso, Nicolo Achille III, Carolyn Durso, Claire Durso, and Christopher Durso; and his great-grandson, Joseph Alger Durso V. He also leaves behind many extended family members, lifelong friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
An intimate viewing will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at South Park Funeral Home in Pearland, Texas, followed by a graveside service at 10:00 a.m.
Serving as pallbearers will be his six grandchildren: Shelby Achille, Joseph Alger Durso IV, Nicolo Achille III, Carolyn Durso, Claire Durso, and Christopher Durso.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Joseph’s memory may make memorial contributions to the Alvin Youth Livestock Arena & Association. Checks may be mailed to P.O. Box 1596, Alvin, TX 77512.
Joseph will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend. His unwavering work ethic, selfless dedication to his family, generous spirit, and one-of-a-kind sense of humor defined a life well lived. His legacy is one of love, laughter, service, and family—a legacy that will continue through the generations he so dearly loved. Though he will be deeply missed, “Big Joe” and “Big Daddy” will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
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