Fallen Track Worker Hilarion Joseph Lauded as Hero at Homegoing Service

DECEMBER 12 – Grief over their loss and joy in the promise of Jesus Christ came together at the homegoing service for Track Worker Hilarion Joseph in Brooklyn, the first line of duty transit death since the passing of Garrett Goble in 2020. With Brother Joseph’s family in the front rows, Local 100 President Richard Davis, Secretary-Treasurer John V. Chiarello, and MOW VP Richard Rocco as well as Track Chairman Carlos Albert paid their respects and consoled the mourners. Over one hundred union members came out to salute their fallen Brother. New York City Transit President Richard Davey also attended.

Pastor Doc James Gaston and Pastor Haynes gave testimony to the faith of Brother Joseph, who was a devout Christian, and of his family. They proclaimed that he had an appointment with the Lord, that was fixed and unalterable, and that this was a day for rejoicing and reaffirming our hope in Christ.

Speaking to the audience in the time allotted for reflections, TWU Local 100 President Richard Davis said, on behalf of the membership, that “We offer our deepest condolences to the family for their loss. We are here for anything they may need, and we’re here to support the family."

Referring to Brother Joseph’s two tours in Iraq as a US Army serviceman, Track Chair Carlos Albert said, “Brother Joseph was fearless. He is someone who fought in two wars, and who also fought for the rights of immigrants. Someone who took the job as a Track  Worker, one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. He was a hero.”

A beautiful memorial program celebrating Brother Joseph's life and loved ones was distributed. You can read it here.