Born in February 4, 1947, in Rochester, New York
Passed 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.
10 entries.
Barbara CorningDavis
from
Warwick RI March 31, 2025
Dear Sally,
There are no words to ease your sadness. Jack and I are grateful we had a happy afternoon with you and Joe in Florida last spring. We will let you know when we're back in Melbourne. Meanwhile, we are sending you lots of love to heal the hole you feel in your heart.
Oh Sally I am so sorry to hear of the passing of my dear Friend Joe. He was quite the fighter and has you to thank for that am sure, he will always be remembered by me and I will be praying for him and for you
May he rest in eternal peace
Joe Presti
Oh, Sally, I am glad that your son and daughter-in-law are in FL, too. Your precious Joe was a fighter who enjoyed longevity despite a variety of health challenges in the 55 years alongside his "private Nurse." Sincere sympathies to you and your family.
Dear Sally,
I am very sorry to hear of Joe's passing.
You and Joe were a perfect example of a loving couple. I remember fondly the stories you shared of his and your journey as a married couple. You and Joe were a great example of how life is full of love and compromising to feel fulfilled as a couple.
Sending you and your family much love as your travel through this journey.
Much love, Pat
Sally, I am so sorry to hear of Joe's passing. Our family's go way back to when my parents rented a house on Whitney St. in Rochester and then became good friends with Joe's parents. God bless you and your family. RIP Joe.
Sally, so very sorry for your loss! Will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers and I hope that wonderful memories help to soften your sorrow🙏💙
Glenn and I send our deepest sympathy to you Sally, and your family. It was our pleasure getting to know Joey D. In the LOM. He was one of the best guys, so kind and loving. He and Nick gave the BLUES Brothers a new name. He will surely be missed very much!! Prayers for comfort in this difficult time.
Uncle Joe,
You were all that is kind, generous and loving. Our hearts are heavy knowing you're no longer a phone call or flight away. You were an easy man to love and respect with your old school ways. The "Uncle Joe" that every family needs. We will love you always and miss you forever. RIP sweet man.
Love,
Tom,Debbie and family
Born in February 4, 1947, in Rochester, New York
