Joshua Daniel Mauro

Joshua “Josh” Mauro, beloved son, brother, uncle, teammate, and friend, breathed his last breath on earth and his first breath in heaven on April 23, 2026, at the age of 35.

Josh was born on February 17, 1991, in St. Albans, England. From an early age, his life was marked by a sincere faith in Jesus Christ, along with a quiet strength, determination, and loyalty that would shape every area of his life. Though many came to know Josh through football, those closest to him knew that beyond the toughness and discipline that defined his athletic career was a man marked by kindness, tenderness, compassion, and deep love for his family and friends.

Josh rose to national prominence as a standout football player at Stanford University, where he became a two-time Pac-12 Champion and Rose Bowl Champion. Known for his work ethic, resilience, and leadership, he earned the respect and admiration of his teammates, coaches, and fans alike. Following his collegiate career, Josh went on to play eight seasons in the NFL, including time with the Arizona Cardinals, Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Giants, and Oakland Raiders, fulfilling a lifelong dream through faith, perseverance, and hard work.

Yet for all his accomplishments on the field, Josh’s greatest victories were found in the relationships he cherished and in the faith he held deeply in his heart.

Josh was a believer in Jesus Christ and recently reaffirmed his faith through baptism at Phoenix North Baptist Church.

He is survived by his father, Greg Mauro; his stepmother, Jeri Mauro; his mother, Joy Christian; and his beloved siblings, Darrick (Brittany), Christina (Nick), Nathan (Mildred), Joseph (Jessica), James, Jon, and Ben (Katelyn), along with 13 precious nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly and doted on as if they were his own children. Josh was deeply loved by his family, and his presence, laughter, strength, and heart will be profoundly missed.

Though our hearts grieve his passing, we do not grieve without hope. Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.” — John 11:25

Josh placed his trust in Jesus Christ, and his family rests in the promise of eternal life and the assurance that they will see him again.

A memorial service celebrating Josh’s life will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Gilbert Memorial Park.

In honor of Josh’s life and legacy, the family is also announcing the launch of the Josh Mauro Foundation. The foundation will partner with the Dream Center in its mission to rescue and restore lives affected by addiction, homelessness, and human trafficking, and sponsor annual Josh Mauro Football Camps in Dallas and Phoenix to invest in and inspire the next generation.