Joseph "Joe" Scanlon

Joseph “Joe” Scanlon, 73, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026, surrounded by family and close friends after a long and courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis.

A lifelong mechanic and respected businessman, Joe built Harvey Road Automotive from the ground up and proudly operated it for more than forty years. Known for his honesty, humor, and fairness, he earned the trust of generations of customers throughout the Wilmington area. He treated people the right way, forging not only a successful business but a lasting network of friendships that felt like family.

Joe graduated from Salesianum School in 1971. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He shared 57 years with the love of his life, Diane, whom he met as a teenager. Together they raised their sons, Sean and Ryan, creating a home centered on family, hard work, and time spent outdoors. Joe was happiest camping with his family or hunting and fishing in the mountains and woods, where he formed lifelong friendships and passed along his love of the outdoors to his sons and friends.

Later in life, his greatest joy came from being “Pop-Pop” to his beloved granddaughters, Addie and Scarlett, whom he proudly spoke of even in his final days. Joe will be remembered for his strong work ethic, quick sense of humor, loyalty to friends, and the quiet wisdom he shared with those closest to him. He lived a life grounded in simple values and deep love for the people around him.

He was preceded in death by his son, Ryan Scanlon; his parents, Martin Scanlon and Anna Scanlon (Seifert); his sister, Patricia Klotz (Ben); and his brother, Dr. Martin Scanlon (Sarah).

He is survived by his loving wife, Diane Scanlon (Vincent); his son Sean Scanlon (Jordan); his cherished granddaughters Addie and Scarlett; and many extended family members, close friends, and former customers whose lives he touched over the years.