Joseph DiGennaro, Jr.
Born in February 4, 1947, in Rochester, New YorkPassed March 25, 2025, in Melbourne, Florida
With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Joseph DiGennaro, Jr., lovingly known as “Joe D” on Tuesday, March 25th, 2025 in Melbourne, FL after a long battle with pneumonia.
Joe was born on February 4th, 1947, in Rochester, NY. Son of Nancy (Amorese) and Joseph DiGennaro, Sr.. Joe is the last and youngest of 5 siblings who passed before him; Anna, Veto, Lena, and Annette.
After graduating from high school, Joe proudly served in the US Army for three years and received an Honorable Discharge. While stationed in Boston, he met his beloved wife, Sally Belanger. They were married in 1969 and made Cape Ann, Massachusetts, their home.
Joe’s professional journey saw him explore various industries. He began his career as a Real Estate Agent with Lufkin & Brown, before taking a leap into business ownership in 1976 by purchasing Magnolia Beverage in Magnolia, MA. After 4 years of ownership he then transitioned to the liquor industry as a Sales Representative with Merrimack Valley Distributing Company, where he worked for over 25 years. In pursuit of further independence, Joe eventually became the proud owner of Schooner’s Market in Essex, MA, until his retirement in 2015.
In retirement, Joe fulfilled a long-held dream of moving to Florida. He settled in Melbourne, enjoying the warm, sunny weather, and all the amenities the state had to offer. Joe lived simply and fully, enjoying his family, lounging by the pool, savoring good food, testing his tolerance for hot sauces and relishing an ice-cold beer.
Though our hearts are heavy with the loss of such a remarkable father, grandfather, husband, uncle, brother-in-law and friend, we are comforted by the thought that Joe can FINALLY take a deep breath. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Sally (Belanger) DiGennaro of Melbourne, FL; his children, Joseph L. DiGennaro and wife Blaire of Orlando, FL; Michael DiGennaro and wife Daniella of Wilmington, DE; and Katherine Gilfillen and husband Stuart of Tiverton, RI. Joe is also survived by his four grandchildren: Abigail, Charlotte, Samantha, and Michael Jr., as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He will be dearly missed by his many close friends.
A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, March 31st, 2025 at 10a.m. at Brownlie-Maxwell Funeral Home, 1010 E. Palmetto Ave., Melbourne, FL 32901.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Lung Association. www.lung.org.
