George R. MacEntee Jr.

George R. MacEntee, Jr., a longtime resident of Highland and formerly of Clinton Corners and Poughkeepsie, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026. He was 78 years old.

George was born on August 17, 1947, in Poughkeepsie, the son of the late George R. MacEntee, Sr. and Isabel Bacon Benward. He was also predeceased by his stepfather, Clifford Benward. George devoted 32 years of service to the Poughkeepsie Journal, where he worked as a Distribution Manager. Following his retirement, he continued to stay active by working for Lowe's in Highland for 13 years. He proudly served his community as a volunteer firefighter with the West Clinton Fire House, Station 2. In the 1970s, George was also a member of the Civilian Patrol Tactical Squad, earning numerous Letters of Commendation in recognition of his service.

In his free time, George found great joy in the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He enjoyed camping and painting and was highly skilled with his hands, particularly in woodworking. A gifted singer, George loved to share his rich baritone voice.

George is survived by his daughter, Melissa Zerafa and her husband, Chris, and their children, Ashleigh Schreiber and her fiancée, Shane Mathers, Nadia Zerafa, and Arianna Zerafa; his son, George MacEntee III and his children, Sarah, Elizabeth, and Jacob MacEntee; and his son, Gene MacEntee. He is also survived by his sisters, Constance Smith and Helen Lafumee, as well as several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and stepfather, George was predeceased by his infant brother.

The family extends their gratitude to The Fishkill Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation for their care and unwavering support.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 8, at 2:00 p.m. at New Paltz Rural Cemetery, 81 Plains Road, New Paltz, with Pastor Bill Mayhew officiating.

To send a personal condolence, please visit www.riverviewbyhalvey.com.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Riverview Funeral Home by Halvey, LLC.