Joseph D. Prota, 70, formerly of Branford, died Jan. 13th at Masonicare of Wallingford after a long illness.  Born in New Haven, son of the late Donald & Florence (Ruggiero) Prota, Joseph worked as an independent contracting truck driver. He is survived by a son Pasquale Prota, and was predeceased by a son Joseph Jr. Friends may call THURSDAY from 9 - 10:15 A.M. at the Peter H.Torello & Son F.H. 1022 Dixwell ave. Hamden. Interment in Beaverdale will be privately held at a later date.