John Genna III

John Genna III, 54, passed away on April 23, 2026, in Morristown, New Jersey. Born on November 8, 1971, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, John lived a life full of passion, loyalty, and love for his family and friends.

A proud graduate of the Class of 1990 from John F. Kennedy High School in Iselin, NJ, John was a natural leader as captain of both the football and wrestling teams. He was also fondly remembered for his cherished 1969 Camaro, a car that became synonymous with his vibrant personality and love for classic vehicles.

John’s career as a diesel mechanic was deeply rooted in his upbringing. From a young age, he worked alongside his father, John Genna Jr., learning the trade and developing a lifelong passion for working on diesel trucks. His career began at International and spanned several companies over the years, culminating in his role as a Level 3 Diesel Technician at Ryder Trucking in New Brunswick, NJ. John took immense pride in his work, especially enjoying the hands-on “bull work” like brake jobs and breaking down tires by hand. He had a special affinity for old-school diesel trucks and shared this passion with his father and brothers during their annual trips to the Diesel Trucking Nationals at Raceway Park.

John’s life was enriched by his fiancée, Donna Schmidt, with whom he shared countless cherished moments at the beach, summer concerts, and camping trips complete with epic campfires. He found joy in crabbing with Greg and attending classic and muscle car shows with friends. His 1969 Camaro remained a source of pride throughout his life. John also loved riding his meticulously customized 2005 Harley Davidson Softail Springer, often taking to the road with Ed or Clif.

Family was at the heart of everything John did. He is survived by his cherished fiancée, Donna Schmidt, his beloved mother Roberta Genna; brothers Michael Genna and Edward Genna; sister-in-law Melissa Genna; godson Brandon Genna; nephew Nicholas Genna; godmother Kathy Garlick and her husband Ed; sisters-in-law Laura Reese (husband Gregory) and Karen Lledo (husband Nazario); nieces Sophia Lledo, Sabrina Lledo, Veronica Lledo; and nephew Lucas Lledo, as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends whom John considered family. He was predeceased by his father John Genna Jr. and godfather Joseph Genna.

John’s hobbies reflected his zest for life—whether it was organizing camping trips for family and friends or teasing those he cared about with his quick wit and sarcasm. He loved music by artists like Ozzy Osbourne, King Diamond, Slayer, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Stevie Nicks, and enjoyed it all with an ice-cold Pabst Blue Ribbon in hand. Known for being the life of the party, John had an infectious sense of humor that left everyone wondering what hilarious or outrageous idea he would come up with next.

John’s core beliefs were simple yet profound: love deeply, be grateful even on the darkest days, protect those you cherish, and always find something to smile or laugh about. He valued kindness, loyalty, and respect above all else. His blue eyes were unforgettable to everyone who met him, but it was his heart—kind, compassionate, fiercely protective—that truly defined him.

Nicknamed “Turd” by those closest to him—a name that even young children found hilarious—John embraced life with humor and warmth. He adored celebrating holidays, birthdays, and milestones with his nephews and nieces. His love extended beyond family to friends and coworkers alike; he was always willing to lend a helping hand or organize a gathering to bring people together.

John’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to those he held dear. For all who knew him, he leaves behind an enduring example: live fully, love deeply, be kind always—and never forget to laugh every day.

May John’s memory continue to bring comfort to all who loved him as they honor his life by carrying forward his values of kindness, loyalty, and joy. In lieu of flowers we respectfully request that you consider honoring John's memory by helping the organizations he was passionate about.

The American Kidney Fund generously provided John with a grant, which covered the premiums of his secondary medical insurance: https://www.kidneyfund.org/honor-and-memorial-giving

The Blue Ridge Bull Terrier Rescue is specifically for Bull Terrier dogs (think Spudz McKenzie). This is a type of dog John dreamed of adopting one day:

https://www.brbtc.org/donate/

A Memorial Gathering will be held at Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home, 703 Main Street, Toms River, NJ 08753, US, on May 9, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

A Memorial Service will begin at 3:30pm at Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home