Joseph James Duty

Joseph James Duty, 52, passed away peacefully in Hanford, CA on August 13, 2023. He was born on January 25, 1971 in Hanford, CA to Jack and Jackie Duty. He grew up in Riverdale with siblings Jill and Jason. He attended Riverdale High School, where he played football and made friends that lasted a lifetime.

Joseph began his career with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation in January 1998 when he reported to Basic Correctional Academy. Upon graduation, he reported to Pleasant Valley State Prison in February 1998. He promoted to Correctional Sergeant in 2005, Correctional Lieutenant in 2008, Captain in 2013, and Associate Warden in August 2015, where he remained until his retirement in February 2022.

During his career, Joe held many positions including Yard Sergeant, Investigative Services Unit, Watch Commander, Equal Employment Opportunity Coordinator, and Custody Captain. He was ALWAYS a resource for staff, teacher and true leader. He was loyal, dedicated, and dependable. A true Kingpin amongst his peers. He was a treasured mentor and friend over 24 years of exemplary service.

Joe was a sports aficionado: an avid fan of San Francisco 49ers and Giants, Notre Dame, and Boston Celtics. His favorite band was U2. He loved fishing, barbequing, and spending time with family, friends, and colleagues.

Joe is preceded in death by his father, Jack R. Duty in 2017. He is survived by his mother Jackie Duty; sister Jill (Shane) Sellers; brother Jason (Jami) Duty; niece Jayci Duty; nephews Joshua Sellers, Caleb Sellers, and Jack Duty; and a large extended family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 2, 2023 at Riverdale Memorial Hall, 3085 West Mount Whitney, Riverdale, CA. Doors open at 11:00 a.m.; program begins at 11:30 a.m.

Family and friends are invited to share condolences stories, memories, and photos to remember and celebrate his life at www.peoplesfuneralchapel.com.