It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Joseph “Joey” James Raccuia, 19, of Radford. Known for being lovable, kind, generous, talented, and wonderfully funny, Joey brought light and laughter wherever he went. He was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama on Sept. 28, 2006.
Joey is the cherished son of Jodi Raccuia and Joe Raccuia (Michelle Carlson), and the loving brother of AJ and Emma Raccuia.
He is preceded in death by his grandfathers, Roger Carroll and Ron Vallone. He is survived by his grandmothers Cheryl “Grandma Spike” Gott (Tom), Linda Carroll, and Mary “Mooma” Vallone; many great-aunts and great-uncles; and special great-aunt and great-uncle, Aunt Di (Diane Locche) and Uncle Danny (Dan and Brenda Locche). He is also survived by many loving aunts and uncles, including Amy Warner (Jimmy), Carrie Colwell (Kevin), Jim Bielicki (Heather), Kim Carlo (Joe) and Ron Raccuia (Melissa); many cousins Chelsie Reyes (Luis), Allison Johnson (Connor), Taylor Wright (Collin), Lena Carney (Ryan), Julie Carlo, Ryan Raccuia (Sara) and Remy Raccuia. Joey also adored his second cousins, Joseph Carney, Frank Carney and Deion Carlo-Nelson. It is impossible to put into words how much he loved his countless friends, and cherished every moment with his girlfriend, Isa Ellis.
Joey forged his own path and moved confidently to the rhythm of his own drum. As a high school junior, he left the comfort of home and friends for Fredericksburg, Virginia to chase his baseball dreams at PDG Baseball Academy. In 2025, he graduated from PDG and attended Radford University where he was a member of the Radford University Baseball team. He proudly wore number 30 and was a middle infielder. His passion for the game was matched only by his love for family, teammates, and friends. He dreamed of getting drafted by professional baseball and often talked about becoming a coach or scout.
Joey was a bright, wonderful soul who brought so much joy and love into every room. He was deeply introspective and this quality gave him wisdom and tenderness beyond his years. He was known for giving the best hugs. Joey was passionate about life. Outside of baseball, his favorite thing was spending time with his closest friends. He was a devoted fan of the Buffalo Bills and loved visiting his Buffalo family. Joey found a passion for the Kansas City Royals as he spent time around their major and minor league teams. Joey had a special knack for solving problems and building Legos. He was never afraid to stand up for the people he cared about – which, truly, was everyone. Joey loved structure and routine, and yes, he famously loved to shower – sometimes three times a day. His favorite color was royal blue. Joey loved in a way that was uniquely his – sometimes quietly, but always fiercely and with his whole heart.
A memorial service was held at the Dedmon Center at Radford University (Riverside Entrance) Monday, Mar. 2, 2026. The family received family and friends from 4-6 p.m., with a Celebration of Life immediately following at 6 p.m.
The Raccuia family is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford.
