Joseph S. Genco

Joe was born in Jamestown on November 17, 1950, the son of Sam and Teresa Genco. He was raised and educated both in Jamestown and Corry, PA, and graduated from Corry Area High School in 1968. Following graduation, Joe was drafted into the Army and served in Vietnam from 1970-1971. After returning to Jamestown following his tour of duty, Joe enrolled in Jamestown Community College and received his Associate’s Degree.

With his experience of medical dispatch in the Army, Joe took a job with the Jamestown Police Department’s 911 emergency dispatch services. After seven years of emergency service dispatch, Joe then started a job in animal control services for the city. It was a job he truly enjoyed, as he loved animals. In 1985, Joe became a police officer with the Jamestown Police Department where he eventually was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 1989. He became the Union President for the Police Department which he served dutifully until his retirement in 2006.

Joe’s service to the Jamestown Police Department cannot be understated as it was his center, identity, and reason for giving back to society. He fought very hard on civil legislation for the Jamestown Police officers that has influenced them even in the present. Joe was the first ever recipient of the Kendall Club Legacy Award for his service as Union President. His role as Union president was what he was most proud of professionally.

He shared many years and raised a family with Dam Genco and later shared his life with Lydia Genco, with whom he shared an extended family. Personally, he was most proud of being a provider for his family. Joe was father of two sons, Joseph Genco, Jr. and Mark Genco; grandfather of Maurizio Genco; and stepfather to Priscilla Banes, Missy Anderson, Erica Fountain, and Mary Haas. He loved being “Papa” to Grace, Emma, Bryan, Kaylie, Hannah, and Michael.

Joe was preceded in death by his son, Joe Genco Jr., his parents, Sam and Teresa Genco, sister, Phyllis Abbott, and brother, Paul (Sonny) Genco.

Joe is also survived by his sisters, Janice (Tim) Miller and Rosalie Rappaport, brother, Sam (Teri) Genco, and his loving aunt, Josie Nicosia.

Joe was dearly loved by his family, including his nieces, nephews, and cousins. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who loved him.

His favorite quote was, “There is no right way to do the wrong thing.”

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, July 17th in St. James Church with burial to follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday in the Lind Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to The Star Hospice House, 32 W. Fairmount Ave., Lakewood, NY, 14750; St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; or Shriners Children’s Hospital, 1645 W. 8th St., Erie, PA 16505. Share memories and condolences at www.lindfuneralhome.com.