Joan Genovese, 89, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 16, 2023. Born in Niagara Falls, she was the daughter of the late Peter and Alberta (Marra) Petrone.

Joan attended local schools and graduated from Niagara Falls High School. On June 2, 1956, she married the love of her life, Carmen Genovese, N.F.F.D.

Joan began working at her family's restaurant, Uncle Dud's, on Ferry Avenue, as well as the Hitching Post and the Goose's Roost for many years. She was also a longtime member of the Cristoforo Colombo Society.

Joan projected her love through her cooking and was famous for her delicious tripe. She looked forward to hosting her family every Thursday night for dinner, a long tradition that began in the 1970s with her parents.

Known as "Joan the Phone" by many, she loved spending time on the phone with her friends and family.  She was also no stranger to the video poker machine at the casino. Above all, Joan's vibrant personality and zest for life will forever be remembered by her cherished friends and family who loved her dearly.

Joan was sadly predeceased by her husband, Carmen in 1985. She is survived by her children, Peter M. (Maryanne) Genovese, Carmen (Michelle) Genovese and Cathy (Bob) Churpita; her grandchildren, Peter J. Genovese, Frank Genovese, Carmen (Emily) Genovese, Felicia (Vinny) Pallaci, Robert (Sarah) Genovese, Brian Churpita and Anthony Churpita; two great-grandchildren, Gianna and Mara; one sister, Patricia (Walter) Pfohl, as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by four siblings, Mary (late Salvatore 'Sas') Vitello, Rocco (late Harriet) Petrone, Frances (late Silvio) Oliverio and Carmella (Ducky) Fera.

Visitation will be Tuesday, December 19 from 4 – 7 PM at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY, where funeral services will begin on Wednesday at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery. Memorial offerings may be made to the American Heart Association or Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.