Joseph F. Coyne Jr.

Madison

Joseph (Joe) Coyne passed away peacefully at home on July 30 at the age of 91. Joe was born in Portland ME on August 7, 1931 to Joseph and Sarah Coyne. He was the oldest of 6 in a loving, hardworking Irish immigrant family. He attended Cheverus High School and in 1956 entered the US Navy serving as a teleman. A friend introduced Joe to his future bride, the love of his life and soul partner, Edwardene (Eddie) Jarusinsky. Joe and Eddie married in 1964, settled in Woodbridge where they started a family. Joe opened Coyne’s Stationary Store and Coyne’s Hallmark in the Amity Shopping Center. Joe and Eddie later moved their gift shop to The Red Barn of Woodbridge. Their one of a kind personal touch transformed their family business to a beloved community institution. The Coyne’s ran their business for over 40 years retiring in 2007.

Joe had a deep faith in the Lord and was ordained a Deacon in the Archdiocese of Hartford in 1981. In his over 35 years as a Deacon he served the parishioners of Our Lady of Assumption Church (Woodbridge), St, Clare and St. Elizabeth (East Haven/ Branford) and St. Mary Church (Clinton). As a deacon, Joe married his children, baptized his grandchildren and provided countless blessings to all those who crossed his path.

Joe had an effervescent playful nature and an easy gift of the gab that drew people to him. He was a keen listener, cared for others deeply and left those he met feeling important. He fostered deep relationships with many friends. Above all, Joe was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was the adored family storyteller, playmate, entertainer, badminton tournament organizer, Uno cheater, and baby sitter extraordinaire to 16 grandchildren.

Joe is survived by Ann-Margit Beccia (Lucien) of Madison, Jule Luciani (Brian) of Woodbridge, Brendan Coyne (Beth) of Madison, Greg Coyne (Maura) of Woodbridge, Justin Coyne (Julie) of Rochester, NY. Joe leaves 15 grandchildren: Matthew, Caroline, Christian, Anna-Claire, Ellie, Anna, Joseph, Maggie, Michael, Liam, Sarah, Maeve, Ada, Wilder, and Romy and 1 great granddaughter, Hailey. Joe has joined his beloved granddaughter Eliza Rose Beccia who predeceased him last year.

Friends may call Friday, August 4 from 5-7pm at the Swan Funeral Home, 825 Boston Post Road, Madison. Church Services will be held on Saturday, August 5 at 10:30am at St Margaret Church, 24 Academy St, Madison. As per Joe’s request, there will be “Coffee And….” for all to follow in the church hall.