Joseph Francis Pennisi

Joseph F. Pennisi Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and longtime public servant, passed away peacefully in Bradenton, Fla., on December 7, 2024, after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 70.

Pennisi was born on June 7, 1954, in Runnemede, NJ, to the late Patricia (Gattinella) Pennisi and Joseph F. Pennisi Sr. He graduated from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., with a bachelor's degree in government, and from the University of Pennsylvania, with a master's in public policy.

Pennisi had a distinguished career in public service, but the cornerstone of his life was his family. He was married for 40 years to Mady Byrne Pennisi, and together they enjoyed traveling, particularly to visit family and to Europe. They raised two daughters, had fun on family beach vacations, and took joy in the births of two grandchildren.

Pennisi was also passionate about music and cars, and was an avid sports fan, particularly of professional baseball and basketball. An accomplished guitarist and bassist, Pennisi performed with musical groups that included the Foy Brothers Band in Albany, N.Y. He also collected vintage electric guitars. Pennisi loved driving and owning Porsches. He was a member and officer in the Porsche Club of Central Florida, where he connected with fellow car enthusiasts.

Pennisi received many awards during his career, but was perhaps most proud of being granted the Excalibur Award in 2022 from Bishop Eustace Preparatory School in Pennsauken, N.J., where he graduated in 1972. The award recognizes the achievements and contributions of distinguished graduates. He also treasured his lifelong friendships with Eustace classmates.

During his career, Pennisi held leadership positions in New York State, the City of Albany, and Albany County, where he advanced policies for economic development, housing, and community growth. He served as Secretary to the New York State Senate Finance Committee, Albany Deputy County Executive, Executive Director of the New York State Workers' Compensation Board, and Commissioner of the City of Albany's Department of Housing and Community Development. Later, Pennisi became the Founding Executive Director of the Florida Policy Institute, building an organization that advocated for reforms in education, healthcare, and affordable housing. Pennisi, while a member of the Orlando Sentinel's panel of 100 leaders, authored weekly current events opinion pieces.

In the workplace, he took pride in mentoring junior colleagues, and following their career advancements and family lives. He also left a legacy of service by volunteering with nonprofit and civil rights organizations.

Pennisi is survived by his wife, Mady; daughters, Julia Stanton (Barclay) and Mary (Brandon Kruger); grandchildren, Hazel and Bridger; his sisters, Barbara Tighe and Carol Terreri (John); and his extended family and many friends. He was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Len Tighe.

A Memorial Mass for Pennisi will be held on June 7, 2025 at 12:30 PM at St. Teresa of the Infant Jesus Church, 13 E. Evesham Rd., Runnemede, NJ 08078. Mass to be followed by a luncheon for family and friends at Rexy's Restaurant, 700 Black Horse Pike, West Collingwoods Heights, NJ 08059.

Rest in peace, Joe. You are greatly missed.

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