Joseph Leone "Poppy Hooks"

“Poppy Hooks”

April 10, 1929 – April 9, 2020

It is with deep sadness we share the news that Joseph Leone, better known as “Poppy Hooks” to his family and friends, passed away at home on Holy Thursday, April 9, 2020, one day shy of his 91st birthday.

Joseph is survived by his wife of 67 years, Margaret (Obidienzo), sons Jeffrey and Daniel, daughter-in-law Donna (Savino), cherished grandson, Joseph Thomas, and many nieces and nephews.

Joseph is predeceased by his parents, Fernando and Tina (Smiraglia), and his two sisters, Claire Hill and Virginia Scalzo. He was raised in Corona, New York, where he attended P.S. 14 and Newtown High School. Joseph played baseball as a teenager and earned the nickname “Hooks” for his pitching abilities. His love of music led him to play the saxophone. On June 1, 1952, at St. Leo’s Church, Joseph married his childhood sweetheart, Margaret, who he called Peggy. Together they raised two sons, Jeffrey and Daniel. Joseph had several jobs as a young man, but he was most proud to be a Local 282 International Brotherhood of Teamsters Chauffeur where he drove and operated a concrete mixer for many years. He worked on many notable New York buildings including the iconic TWA Terminal at Kennedy Airport, Battery Park City, Jacob Javits Convention Center and the World Trade Center Twin Towers. Joseph was living in Flushing when he retired in 1992.

After retirement Joseph, enjoyed doing projects around the house, cooking and baking, watching sports and spending time with his family. In 1997, his life changed with the birth of his only grandson who took his name. For the past 22 years, the two Joseph Leone’s had an unbreakable bond and shared so many experiences together, especially their love of music and cooking.

In recent years, Joseph experienced several health challenges that he conquered with strength and determination. That did not stop him from caring for his beloved wife for the past several years after she suffered a stroke. Joseph’s attention to every detail of her care was done with so much love and tenderness.

Joseph will be sorely missed by all who knew him, but especially his immediate family. He remained involved in the lives of his children and grandson and his passing has left a void that can never be filled.

Joseph is being cared for by Frederick Funeral Home in Flushing, NY. There will not be a wake or funeral mass at this time. A graveside service at Mount St. Mary Cemetery will be held on Friday, April 24, 2020, at 9:00 AM. Deacon Brian Mannix will conduct the service which is limited to 10 guests.

A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date.