Joseph Francis McGrath

Joseph Francis McGrath, lifelong resident of Kingston, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2025, with his daughter Jacqueline and granddaughter Grace by his side. He was 92 years old.

Born in Boston in 1933, Joe was the son of Mary and Joseph McGrath. He graduated from Kingston High School before earning a B.A. in Economics from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Following graduation, Joe proudly served his country for two years as a U.S. Army Press and Public Liaison for Nike guided missile sites throughout New England. After his military service, he began his professional career in a management training program with Mutual of New York Life Insurance. He went on to work in Boston and Baltimore as an engineering recruiter for JBM Consultants, later becoming Director of Personnel for Lehigh Design Company in Waltham. Recruited by a national parts importer, Joe served as Vice President of Sales, dividing his time between Los Angeles and Randolph. Eventually, he opened his own business, Vista Automotive in Hanover, specializing in importing Japanese, German, and Israeli replacement auto parts.

Joe was deeply active in his community and sports. For more than 25 years, he served as a varsity basketball and soccer referee across Eastern Massachusetts. He was also a lifelong pilot and avid golfer who delighted in teaching his granddaughters the game he loved.

In 2003, Joe and his beloved wife, Gerry, moved to Conifer Green in Kingston. Gerry predeceased him in 2015. Together, they raised five children and shared many years of love and partnership.

Joe will be greatly missed by his daughter Jacqueline and her husband, Mark Rezendes, of Plymouth, MA. Mark and Joe shared a close friendship and bond that lasted more than 45 years, while Jacqueline and her father enjoyed a very special and loving relationship.

He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Grace Rezendes, Anna Rezendes, Molly Rezendes, Tess Rezendes, Jennifer Higgins, and Deanna Bell, all of Plymouth, along with Katherine Gentile of Norton. Joe shared a very special bond with his great-grandchildren Natalia, James, and Nathan Gentile, the children of Andrew and Katherine Gentile. He is also remembered by great-grandchildren Alana Place, T.J. Bell, and Thomas Dickerson.

Joe's loved ones will remember him for his kindness, quick wit, wisdom, and the countless life lessons he shared with those closest to him.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the VA Hospitals in West Roxbury and Jamaica Plain for the exceptional care and compassion Joe received.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph's Church, 272 Main Street, Kingston, on Friday, October 10, at 10:00 AM Family and friends are warmly invited to attend. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe's memory to Rosemary's House, 225 Water St , Suite A200, Plymouth, MA 02360 Attn: Nikki, or via Venmo @RosemarysHouse (please note: "In memory of Joe McGrath").