Dr. Joseph Damone II DMD

Dr. Joseph Damone II, DMD May 5, 1939 – May 10, 2025
Dr. Joseph Damone II, DMD, age 86, of Naples, Florida, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on May 10, 2025, at 1:24 PM. Born on May 5, 1939, in Brooklyn, New York, he was the beloved son of the late Michael and Dorothy Damone. He was predeceased by his brother, Michael G. Damone.
A lifelong scholar and passionate educator, Dr. Damone's distinguished academic journey began at Manhattan College, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1961. He went on to receive his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (D.M.D.) from the University of Pennsylvania (1961–1965), followed by a Certificate in Orthodontics from the University of Pennsylvania in 1972.
Dr. Damone maintained a respected private orthodontic practice for decades with his primary office in Blackwood, New Jersey, and additional offices in West Berlin and Williamstown, NJ. He also served as an Associate Clinical Professor in the Department of Orthodontics at the University of Pennsylvania and held instructor roles in both Prosthetics and at the Charles H. Tweed Foundation for Orthodontic Research.
Deeply committed to the advancement of his profession, Dr. Damone served as President (2002) and Director (1994–2002) of the American Board of Orthodontics. His influence extended across numerous professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, the New Jersey Association of Orthodontists, the Greater Philadelphia Society of Orthodontists, and the Middle Atlantic Society of Orthodontics. Among his academic leadership roles, he chaired the Pediatric Dentistry Orthodontic Curriculum for the University of Pennsylvania's DMD program, directed the Preventative and Interceptive Orthodontic Program and Clinic, and served as Chairman of Admissions for the Orthodontic Program.
A proud veteran, Dr. Damone held the rank of Major in the U.S. Army Dental Corps. His service included time at the U.S. Army Hospital (Letterman General Hospital) in San Francisco, the Southern European Task Force, and the 45th Field Hospital in Vicenza, Italy, where he was Chief of Preventative Dentistry. He continued his service in the U.S. Army Reserves at the Philadelphia Supply Depot and received an Honorable Discharge in 1972. His military honors include a Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service and a Certificate of Achievement.
Dr. Damone received numerous awards over his lifetime, including the Devlin Award for Outstanding Contributions to Orthodontics (NJ Association of Orthodontists), the Special Recognition Award (Middle Atlantic Society of Orthodontics), the Rotary Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Paul Harris Fellow Award. He was also recognized by Columbia Dentaform and the U.S. Army for his distinguished service.
An active member of the Blackwood, NJ Rotary Club, Dr. Damone held all board positions and chaired multiple committees, including co-chairing the Rotary District 764 Conference. He also served in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and authored various published research works in his field.
Dr. Damone's life was filled with adventure and joy. A licensed U.S. Coast Guard Master Captain, he found peace on the water through boating, sailing, and fishing. He was also an avid golfer, skier, RC airplane builder, bird hunter, and world traveler, especially enjoying trips with his devoted wife, Gail.
He is survived by his loving wife of many years, Gail Anne Damone; his son Joseph Gregory Damone, Daughter in Law Giovanna M. DiPalma; his daughter Courtney Damone and Fiance Todd Johnston; and his cherished grandchildren Marco Joseph Damone and Michael Gregory Damone.
Honoring his wishes, the family will not be holding a service, but they are grateful for the love and support received during this time. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dr. Damone's memory may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.
Dr. Joseph Damone II will be remembered for his lifelong dedication to excellence, education, and service-to his family, his profession, and his country.