Final answer:
According to the gospels, Joseph is not mentioned during Jesus' public ministry or crucifixion, indicating that he likely died before this time.
Step-by-step explanation:
The gospels provide evidence that Joseph died before Jesus began his public ministry. According to the gospels, Jesus' earthly father was Joseph, and Joseph is mentioned as being alive during Jesus' childhood and early adulthood. However, Joseph is not mentioned at all during Jesus' public ministry or crucifixion. This absence of Joseph from the gospel accounts suggests that he likely died before this time.