My Brother Joe
July 7, 2011
Joe Hurney
My brother Joe lived life to the fullest. He lived for today and figured tomorrow would take care of itself. He had a passion for life and all it had to offer. He had a great sense of humor (gift from Pop). Joe had so many friends, and make no mistake, they were so important to him. It was a very rare conversation that he did not include a Russ story, a Billy Underwood story or something about Foot, Mike or one the names of too numerous to mention.
Joe could converse about anything, he was very intelligent. Politics, books, authors movies TV, especially Charlie Rose and his guests. He loved horse races, Saratoga, Del Ray Beach, Key West, Maine and of course Baldwin.
He cared, he had strong opinions, we know that.. Joe and I shared many childhood memories that only we had. We were close in age, yes I am older, and so often reminisced about 22nd Street and 3rd Avenue, Epiphany School, Epiphany church, and the infamous Sisters of Charity that taught us,. Ice skating in Central Park, playing in Gramercy Park, the 28st Street Movie Theatre we went to every Saturday for a quarter. I loved recalling that he was “MacNamara leader of the band” chosen out of his entire class for the lead. He loved Westerns, he loved his Irish heritage, he loved golf, he loved to read. He loved being a Hurney!
He was proud of being a successful entrepreneur for several years But most of all he loved his children.
In the past four weeks, which I am so grateful to God for, he would ask me when we were alone to watch out for his kids. He didn’t want to leave them or his grandchildren, but his body wore out. He had no strength but he was surrounded by love and support these last days. His brother Michael, Teresa (who sang for him), Roy and myself, Mary daily by phone, dear Ginger, a cherished visit from Russ and most importantly his precious Jennifer, Joseph, Denise and Flo, the mother of his children. Those that couldn’t be there kept in touch by phone. I lost count of the calls to our home asking about him – nonstop (just ask Roy). Joe was loved. He will be sorely missed Rest in Peace MacNamara.. You are in Gods hands now dear brother and we love you and will miss you always.
