Joseph E Salafia Sr. of Middletown, RI and Singer Island, FL passed away on February 19, 2014. He was the husband of Carmel (Regine) Salafia for 63 years. Born in Providence, RI, he was the son of James and Rose (Viola) Salafia. He is survived by his son Joseph Salafia Jr.and his wife Marlaine. He leaves behind his granddaughter Emily Delgado, her husband Angel, and grandson Joe Salafia. He also leaves behind his great grandchildren Dean and Carmel. He was the brother of James Salafia. He served aboard the Destroyer Escort "USS Riddle" in the Pacific during WWII where he developed and shared a love of the sea that inspired his son, nephews and grandchildren. He graduated from Brown University in 1949. He was the former owner of Clarke Flowers in Providence. He was an avid golfer and loved to take a daily swim in the ocean. Services will be private and a celebration of life will take place in the summer. In tribute to him and his many years of service in the floral industry the family suggests you send flowers to someone you love.