Obituary of Joseph A. Palumbo, Sr.

Joseph Palumbo, a devoted family man, community servant, and talented artist, lived a remarkable 93 years filled with love, purpose, and creativity. Born and raised in Staten Island, New York, Joseph answered the call of duty early in life, joining the U.S. Navy to serve his country. Upon returning from service, he dedicated himself to protecting his community as a firefighter with Engine 160, proudly known as “The Hill Billies.” His courage and selflessness defined not only his career, but also his approach to life. In addition to his professional service, Joseph was a gifted artist who expressed his creativity through drawings and paintings that brought joy to those around him.

A lifelong parishioner of St. Sylvester’s Church in Staten Island, Joseph was deeply rooted in his faith and an active member of the Holy Name Society. It was at St. Sylvester’s that he married his beloved wife, Marie Palumbo, with whom he shared over 60 years of unwavering love and partnership, until her passing in 2013. Together, they raised two children, Judith (Thomas) and Joseph Jr. (Cynthia) in a home filled with faith, laughter, and artistic inspiration. Joseph’s family grew to include four grandchildren - Thomas (Siobhan), Simone, Joshua, Joseph - and two great-grandchildren, Wyatt and Cadence, who were the light of his life and the keepers of his enduring legacy.

Throughout his life, Joseph remained committed to his family, faith, and community. His creativity, combined with his dedication to helping others, made him a cherished figure in the lives of all who knew him. Whether through his heroic work as a firefighter, his artistic contributions, his steadfast faith at St. Sylvester’s, or his role as a loving patriarch, Joseph touched countless lives. He will be remembered as a man of courage, creativity, and unwavering devotion, leaving behind a legacy of service, love, and inspiration for generations to come.

A visitation will be held at the Matthew Funeral Home on Thursday, December 5, 2024 from 4-8PM. Funeral departing on Friday at 9:45am with a mass of Christian Burial at St. Sylvester’s Church at 10:30am.  Cremation to follow at Rosehill Crematory in Linden, NJ.