Joseph Whitney

Trying to find a way to properly grieve when traditional funeral gatherings are not allowed is difficult. For those of you who take the time to read this to the end. We, his family thank you for sharing this most difficult time with us celebrating the life of Joseph F. Whitney. Joseph Francis Whitney returned home to be with his creator on September 18, 2020, at the age of 62, in North Port, FL. Born in Boston MA on December 18, 1957. He was a beloved son to the late George P. Whitney and Frances L. (Giglio) Whitney. He is survived by his loving wife Leah M. Steves-Whitney. His children Brandon T. Whitney, Paige M. Whitney. As well as, the children he called his own Michael A. Mateo, Aaron Clark and Tayor Owens. His brother's and sister's George F. Whitney, Paul J. Whitney, Janet F. Victoria, Linda F. Whitney, Helena A. Whitney. His mother through love, Phyllis Eckenrode, many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was also the loving brother of the late Maria Whitney, Carol A Whitney, Mary Jane Walls and Thomas F. Whitney. Joseph Whitney AKA ""Papa Joe"" I was fortunate to get to meet Joe 30 years ago. I fell in love when I first laid eyes on him. Three days later he asked me to marry him. Followed by a beautiful woman, ""Gloria"", who made the most sought-after wedding cakes for a living having a cancelation. The perfect wedding was on. With less than 30 days to plan. People have asked what did Joe do? My response is what didn't he do? He was skilled in many fields. From auto mechanics, Auto body repair, Painting cars and houses, Building houses every aspect from the ground up, Appliance repair, all around Mr. Fix it, CDL truck driver, Land lord, Day Care Provider and a "" Papa Joe"", who helped and supported his family and community as long as he could. Joe grew up in Southie, outside of Boston, MA. He shined shoes in bars as a child in the 60's, skipping kindergarten to hang on the beach. Even at a young age he skipped to his own beat.. Joe was a longtime resident of Syracuse, NY for 3 decades on which he made his mark. Joseph F. Whitney became Papa Joe, when a child was sad and did not want to attend daycare. The childs' reason was because Brandon and Paige had a daddy and he did not. This caused the child distress which did not settle well with Joe at all. Without missing a beat, Joe opened his heart to this child and his mother. Joe, stated with total love, ""Well then, my name is Papa Joe"". Everyone, including you, now has a Papa Joe and Mama Leah."" The young child hugged him and never was sad about coming to daycare again. Papa Joe was born and he spread the same love with open arms throughout his community. You can find Papa Joe all over Syracuse if you take a minute and look. – Starting with Bellevue Elementary school, when he took it upon himself to build over 25 carnival games for the children, then he worked the prize table to see all the happy faces. – At Corcoran High School he helped put together the reflective sitting area with CNY Works youth. (his children did not even attend school there) -When the new Carter school opened downtown, he helped secure the money needed to build them a playground by volunteering to build 2 other playgrounds for underprivileged communities in other states. Then helped organize the workers for the build at the school. -He rebuilt 11 homes on the South / West side of Syracuse and provided clean affordable housing within the community. -When he was driving a truck, he would bring home the big rig load up the neighborhood kids and take them for a ride blowing the horn up and down the streets. -He assisted with many Syracuse home-based daycare's projects and repairs to help them stay running smoothly. -He helped his neighbors and cared for the elderly. – He provided jobs and taught skills to those who were willing to learn. -He would take children with him to Rock n Bowl, professional football games, Niagara Falls, Sea World, or any place else he felt like going. -Joe made it a point for years to go to Build and Grow with 2 children he thought of as his own blood and bring enough kits back so the daycare children in our care would be able to do them as well. He would sit there for hours helping them build their projects. -He made time for those who needed him. – Wow could he cook!! -He was most likely the one who stopped to help you when your car broke down on the side road. -He loved cars and traded up often. (He loved his Jag) -He remembered all these crazy facts about bands throughout the years. -His favorite place to relax and feel the love was with his niece Brenda's in Jacksonville. -He stood by his family and loved with all of his heart. -He opened our minds to all types of music. -He had zero tolerance for cruelty. -He was an old school gentleman who opened the door for you, gave everything of himself to the people he cared for. -He was extremely ill and in pain for many years. He fought every day to be with us. -Papa Joe was a great friend to many, an amazing father to few and an incredible husband to one. If you ever had the opportunity to meet Papa Joe you would understand just how special he was. If you have a moment, play in his honor some Steely Dan, Earth Wind and Fire, Al Stewart, Christopher Cross, Queen, Prince, Patti La Belle or Stevie Wonder. Know he is there singing and tapping along with you. Maybe even pay it forward, do something nice for someone for no reason at all. He gave so much of himself to the people around him, we however, were the lucky ones to be by his side and bare witness to such a beautiful human being during his life. The ripple of Papa Joe's loss is felt throughout his family, friends and community he has left behind. We are heart broken by the loss of Joseph F Whitney, AKA ""Papa Joe"". We are forever grateful that your pain is finally gone. Rest in Peace my Love, We have many reasons to celebrate your life. Love you much, Miss you more. A memorial service will be held at a later date in December, closer to his birthday. If anyone would like information, they can contact the family directly. If you do read this, Please take the time to leave us a comment. Maybe even list the song or story you have. Thank you for taking the time.