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The family of Joseph Vincent Toal 87, sadly announce his passing on Sunday August 11, 2024.
He was born on May 17,1937 in Brooklyn, New York to the late Anna and Thomas Toal. Beloved brother to Michael, Thomas, Eileen and Peter.
On July 18, 1959, he married Joan Kennedy and they raised four children together. Daughter Maureen Zembricki, son Patrick (Maureen), son Dennis (Kathy), daughter Geraldine (Tommy).
Joseph was the proud grandfather to Joseph, Matthew, Ryan, Patrick, Kelly, Kate, Kevin, Michael, Jennifer, Thomas, Terrence, Olivia and forever in our hearts Kevin. He is great grandfather to Ellie, Izzy, Achille, Riley, Brendan, Clair, Colleen, Benjamin, Blair, Maeve, Lewis.
He began his dedication to public service in the United States Marine Corps in the 1950’s then found a home with the New York City Police Department. Joe enjoyed an illustrious four decades with the NYPD.
Some of his favorite memories he loved to share included escorting the Beatles at Shea Stadium in 1965, arresting a young John Gotti in the 60’s for driving a stolen car, the famous blackout in the summer of 1977 and even dressing up as a woman, known as Muggable Mary!
He advanced his career and ultimately served as SBA President for 16 years, running unopposed until his retirement in the year 2000. As SBA President he was a well-respected, dedicated leader that elevated the SBA to exceptional levels and has left an unmistakable legacy to this day, many years after his retirement.
On September 11,2001, although newly retired, he made his way down to Ground Zero to help assist in any way he could. He was a proud American and vowed to never forget the events of that tragic day.
Spending summer weekends in East Hampton, fishing and boating became one of his favorite hobbies that he shared with his children and grandchildren. Catching snappers that Aunt Louisa would fry in butter was a cherished memory.
Joseph and Joan traveled the world. Cruising became their favorite vacation. He enjoyed playing the horses, trading stocks and loved when his grandchildren and great grandchildren popped into see him. He enjoyed his Guinness and his Irish heritage. His legacy will live on in his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and those who come after.
Joseph received countless accolades for his service and there was not a favor that he couldn’t get done. He was honored to be the NYPD Emerald Society “Irishman of the Year”. He was a third degree lifetime member of the K of C and former President of The Ancient Order of Hibernians , Brooklyn Division 9.
Brooklyn born and raised he retired in Rockaway with Joan.
He was known to his family as Papa Joe.
He will be missed everyday.
We celebrate a life well lived, we will cherish the memories and know that he will be watching over his family. He was The Great Protector.
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