Joseph Henry Wallace, III

IN LOVING MEMORY

FRANKFORT - Joseph Henry Wallace, III, fondly known as "Joe," peacefully passed away on the evening of March 13th, 2026, at his home in Frankfort, New York, at the age of 56. Surrounded by the love and support of his cherished family, Joe bravely faced his battle with cancer until the very end.

Born on February 13th, 1970, in Brooklyn, New York, Joe was a devoted son to Joseph H. "Sonny" Wallace, II, and MaryAnn (Davern) Wallace. Rooted in the Catholic faith, Joe had immense admiration for Reverend Monsignor Francis J. Willenburg of St. Agnes Church, who always remained a meaningful part of Joe’s life.

Joe’s gentle spirit was well known to all who knew him, a towering presence with a heart just as large. He was passionate about sports, cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Knicks, and New York Mets with boundless enthusiasm. Joe took pride in every endeavor with humility and kindness. His love for King Kong and Godzilla was a joyful legacy he shared with his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and others alike. Joe also found happiness in vacationing with his family, any time he was near the ocean.

Joe's early years in East Utica, New York, were marked by deep connections and lifelong friendships with a special mention to Frank Costello and Rosemarie Grounds. One of Joe’s favorite past times was going to hunting camp with the guys, Jack, Joseph, Randy, Jose, and Zachary were all part of what they referred to as “The Brotherhood.” Many unforgettable laughs and memories were made. Joe also loved hanging in what he called “The Kitchen of Doom,” where he developed many friendships, sharing drinks and laughs, blaring the Dewalt Radio. Songs from Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Genesis, Metallica and many more, especially Fats Domino, “I Found My Thrill On Blueberry Hill”, were some of his favorites.

Motivated by his motto, “do it nice, or do it twice!” which meant doing it right the first time. Joe always took pride in what he did, and he did it well. For 17 years he dedicated himself to his work at Lignetics New England Wood Pellet Plant, in Schuyler, NY.

Joes greatest joy was his family. Joe was united in marriage to Donna Scofield, of Cold Brook, New York, who affectionately called him her “Mighty Joe Young,” a fitting tribute to his unwavering strength and devotion. Joe and Donna shared a blessed union for 33 years. Joe was a proud father to Joseph H. Wallace, IV (Christina) and Ashley VanCourt (Fred), and a devoted grandfather to Andre, Tristen, and Joseph, in which he shared special bonds with individually.

He is lovingly remembered and survived by his mother, MaryAnn Wallace; sisters JoAnn Carbone and Joslyn Arena (Randy); brother-in-law Anthony “Big Ant”; four nephews—Anthony, Thomas, Zachary (Erica), and Matthew; nieces Jade (Charlie) and Tiffany (PJ); numerous great-nieces and nephews; and his dear Aunt Teena Davern, who always had a special place in his heart, alongside many aunts, uncles, and cousins from New York City and beyond its surrounding area.

Joe was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Joseph H. and Beatrice Wallace; maternal grandparents, Michael J. and Amelia Davern; his father, Joseph H. "Sonny" Wallace, II; sister Roberta A. Guerriera; and two beloved uncles, John and Patty Davern, who were like brothers to him, and a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins, although overly numerous to mention, yet loved dearly.

A special place in his heart was always held for his “fur babies,” Ella and Lilly, his loyal canine companions who brought him comfort and joy.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Christina Aranda, who Joe referred to as “The Boss,” during his illness, as well as Dr. Atul Butala and the dedicated nurses at MVHS. They also deeply appreciate Masonic Care, including Shirley, Judy, Susie and Sue. The Hospice team, with special mentions to Tiahna B., (RN), Ashley M., (Social Worker), for their kindness and compassionate care.

Those wishing to remember Joe in a special way are asked to consider a donation in his memory to either Hospice & Palliative Care, or to the Herkimer County Humane Society. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home for these purposes.

Friends and relatives are warmly invited to pay their respects during calling hours on Friday, March 20th, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at The Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Ilion, New York (Town of Frankfort). A funeral service honoring Joe’s life will take place at the funeral home immediately following at 7:00 PM on Friday evening.

Joe’s casket will be laid to rest at Armory Hill Cemetery in Ilion at a date to be announced in the very near future.

His memory will live in the hearts of all who knew him, and his obituary may be viewed at www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.