Joseph V. Di Giacinto

Joseph V. Di Giacinto passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on Sunday, June 29, 2025. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he was the youngest son of the late Pietro Di Giacinto and Mary (Matricia) Di Giacinto and the beloved husband of the late Doris Ann (Zwiesler) Di Giacinto.

Joe proudly served his country in the United States Army. After a 30 year career that brought him and his family to live in many US locations from Hawaii to Maryland, and overseas to Stuttgart Germany, he retired in 1988 with the rank of Full Colonel. During his distinguished military career, Joe served in the Vietnam War as part of the esteemed Big Red One Infantry Division, where he was awarded the Bronze Star for his valor and service. Following his military retirement, Joe continued his commitment to public service as the Deputy Director of Highways for Harford County, Maryland.

Joe valued honesty, integrity, loyalty, and family above all else. He would often say that if you didn’t have anyone, you always had family. Those who knew him well would attest to his great generosity that was quietly and freely extended to those in need. Although he appeared strait laced, his dry sense of humor and jokes were all the more entertaining as they revealed that he did not take life as seriously as it first appeared. These traits made Joe a respected and esteemed military leader and friend.

A man of many passions, Joe was willing to try anything at least once. Joe was very artistic, a skill which he expressed later in life as a wood carver of duck decoys and other birds. He was a loyal New York Yankees fan and remained active throughout his life enjoying bowling, handball, racquetball, and golf. He was also an avid numismatic and had several rare coins in his collection.

Joe was very proud of his three sons, his nine grandchildren, and his five great-grandchildren. He would never miss an opportunity to brag on their accomplishments and abilities. He also adored his wife of 65 years.

In addition to his wife and parents, Joe was preceded in death by his brother, Vincent Di Giacinto; and his sister, Patricia Badalamenti.

Joe is survived by his loving sons: Peter (Betsy) DiGiacinto, Joseph (Amy) DiGiacinto, Jr., and Thomas (Michelle) DiGiacinto. He was the cherished grandfather of Sheri (Rich) Rosendahl, Wendy DiGiacinto, Ryan DiGiacinto, Kathryn DiGiacinto, Christopher (Avi) DiGiacinto, Kenneth (Rebecca) DiGiacinto, Alexander DiGiacinto, Ellen (Logan) Davis, and Christopher (Ashley) Sarver. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Hayley DiGiacinto-Grenier, Hendrix McDaniel, Nayan Rawat, Anya Rawat, and Amaya Sarver.

Interment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Joseph’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project.