Obituary of Joseph M. McGinnis

Age 55, passed away unexpectedly, at home, on Monday, July 16, 2018.  Joey was born in Elmira on December 25, 1962.  He is predeceased by his father Robert H. McGinnis, Sr., mother and step-father, Rita M. (Skorniak) and Richard E. Durgin, Sr.  He is also predeceased by his step-brother, Richard E. Durgin, Jr., and nephew, C.J. Buchanan.  Joey is survived by his loving siblings, Judy McGinnis, Robert, Jr. and Kathleen McGinnis, Douglas and Christine McGinnis, Denise and Joseph Mullaney, Michelle Buchanan with Steven Wright, step-sister Debra Durgin with Beth McElligott.  Also surviving are nieces and nephews who adored Uncle Joey….Brittany (Kevin) Okimura, Robert (Samantha Robinson) McGinnis III, Michael McGinnis, Megan (Aaron Shelton) McGinnis, Jonathon McGinnis, Amanda Buchanan, Sean Rafferty, Mya Buchanan and Sarah Mullaney.  Joey worked at Elmira College, his favorite place to be.  He loved the college and was their “Number 1 Fan”, actively attending all sporting events, especially men’s and women’s hockey games.  His additional loves were the Elmira Pioneers, attending nearly every game; the Chemung County Fair, “I Got It” and Demolition Derby; Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, rarely missing any shows, often carrying his hand held TV to make sure of that!  Joey’s only dislikes were….not clearing the board on Jeopardy, football and “Rochester, honey”.  Well known in the community, Joey knew everyone.  No matter where he went he always knew someone!  If you met him once, he knew you forever…your name, birthday and age..often reminding you of your age whenever he saw you, in his excited and enthusiastic way.  Joey’s family would like to thank Capabilities, especially Debbie Gush and Christine Sowell, along with the other caseworkers and staff who have assisted Joey over the years….ARC for his bike, which he loved and could often be seen riding around town….Elmira College, Pat Thompson and the EC coaches, athletes and student body who have always loved Joey and welcomed him for over 30 years…. Elmira Pioneer’s owner, Robbie Nichols and all the staff for always looking out for Joey.  There are so many more people to thank it would be impossible to list you all.  Joey will be deeply missed by many.  Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W. Water Street, Elmira, on Saturday, July 21, 2018 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.  A funeral service will follow at 4:00 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Joey’s memory to either, Capabilities, 1149 Sullivan Street, Elmira NY 14901, ARC, 711 Sullivan Street, Elmira NY 14901, or Elmira College Athletic Department, 1 Park Place, Elmira NY 14901.