Photo courtesy of Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home of Avon Park
Avon Park, Florida
Mar 25, 1945 – Mar 19, 2024
Joseph Gerald Sliva, age 78, of Avon Park, Florida, passed away Tuesday, March 19, 2024. He was born March 25, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois to Joseph John Sliva and Helen Bukoski. Joseph has been a lifelong resident of Florida, growing up in Miami and moving to Avon Park in the early 1980's. He served in the U.S. Air Force, was a former U.S. Marshall, and was the former Avon Park Police Chief. He is survived by his Sons - Joseph G. Sliva II (Kayla) of Sebring, FL; Donald Roth Jr. (Ashley) of Avon Park, FL; Daughters- Stephanie Townsend (Heath) of Tavernier, FL; Marybeth Houston (Rex) of Islamorada, FL; Sister - Joyce Halaychick (Michael) of Orlando, FL; 12 Grandchildren and 4 Great Grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 11:00 AM with family receiving friends beginning at 10:00 AM at Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home of Avon Park. Interment will follow in Bougainvillea Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the National Fraternal Order of Police. www.fop.net
Arrangements entrusted to:
Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
111 E. Circle St.
Avon Park, FL 33825
Online condolences may be left at:
www.stephensonnelsonfh.com
I did get to talk to Joe about 2 weeks before this happen. We went to school together and I have very good memories of Joe at the Door. He was alittle older than me. He loved his country. Joe we are gonna miss u and will see u on the other side. We all loved u.
Janice Walsh
March 28, 2024 | Bradenton., FL | Friend
Single Tree
Stephanie Townsend
March 27, 2024 | Tavernier, FL
I am so sorry to hear of Joe's passing. I had been thinking about him a lot lately and now I know why. We worked closely together when he was police chief and I was a green reporter for the local newspaper. He always had a smile and was cheerful, even when I asked the tough questions. I saw Joe not too long ago and was able to catch up briefly. I always enjoyed our conversations. The city lost a great man, and the family has lost a loving spirit. My prayers to all.
Romona Washington
March 26, 2024 | Avon Park, FL | Friend
I am so very sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. Joe and his lady friend came to visit me and my wife on numerous occasions. After some quiet conversation, we usually went out to eat, most often at an Amish restaurant in Bradenton. He liked their food, especially the pies. During the few years that I knew him, he struck me as an honest, honorable man and I considered him to be my friend. I will miss him. My sincere condolences go out to his family and friends.
Helmut Koch
March 23, 2024 | Bradenton, FL | Friend
I am a very close friend of Joyce Halaychick, Joey’s sister. We grew up a few houses apart for at least 15 years in Miami and attended the same high school. Joey was such a handsome guy and was always very nice to me. It is hard to believe he is gone and I am sure a shock to his family. I want to express my sympathy to Joey’s family and friends. Wishing peace during this difficult time.
Jane Lemoine
March 22, 2024 | Griffin, GA | Friend
My brother (deceased) and I were childhood friends of Joe and his sister Joyce. Joyce is still my very best friend and I send my love and sympathy for her loss. We have so many memories of a cherished childhood that endured both love and loss. For the rest of our earthly lives we will always share our thoughts, memories, and love for Joe (Joey to us). His smile graced our lives as children, as I'm sure it continued to do as he reached his final destination. Much love to Joyce and...
Lynn Thompson
March 22, 2024 | Mooresville, NC | Friend
I had the occasional chance to know Joe when I was Sheriff Howard Godwin's Administrative Aide at the Sheriff's Office. I always found him to be very cordial and professional. Always enjoyed talking with him. Sending prayers for comfort to his family and friends.
Pat Mann
March 21, 2024 | Sebring, FL | Acquaintance
