Joseph Francis Santillo

Joseph Francis Santillo passed away on October 16, 2022 at 95 years old. A devoted father, spouse, son and patriarch of his large, extended family, he touched so many lives through his caring, strength and generous spirit. Joseph was married to Alfredina DeMichael for 62 years and had three daughters: Joann Piccininni, Susan Avlonitis and Patricia Draga, five granddaughters and four great grandchildren. Joseph was born in the small farming village of Pietrelcina in Italy on October 4, 1927 to Antonio Santillo and Maria Grazia Cardone. Along with his mother and younger brother, Joseph left Italy in his early teens as war loomed over Western Europe to join his father in America. Joseph was always grateful to this country that gave him a good life and opportunity and demonstrated this through his service to his country and his community. Joseph joined the US Navy and served as part of the fleet testing the atom bomb for use in World War II. He was a Nassau County police officer for 36 years working in the Five Towns for most of his career. He was very involved in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post in Inwood, NY serving as Commander and in many positions on the Governing Board. He was very involved in the Sons of Italy Organization in Inwood, NY, also serving in many positions on the Governing Board. He was a Trustee of the Inwood Civic Association and was awarded the Inwood Civic Association's "Man of the Year in 2015" He received Nassau County's 2017 "Make a Difference" Award in recognition of his years of community service. He was an active member of Our Lady of Good Counsel RC Church in Inwood, NY for over 60 years. Above all, Joseph was a loving father, grandfather and great grandfather and will be greatly missed.