CASSIDY, JOSEPH T.

A funeral mass was offered May 19 at St. Patrick’s Church for Joseph T. Cassidy, retired JCPD Deputy Chief and retired Hudson County Sheriff, affectionately known as “Butchie” by his family and close friends. A lifelong Jersey City resident, he passed away peacefully at his home on May 15. Joseph was a dedicated public servant, joining the Jersey City Police Dept. in 1963. He was promoted to Sergeant in 1977; Lieutenant in 1981; Captain in 1985, Inspector in 1989 and Deputy Chief in 1993.
He served in many capacities including a patrol officer in the North District where he walked the Journal Square Post. Moving on to various other positions including ABC Commander, City Command and concluding as Chief of Investigators when he retired in 1995.He was elected Hudson County Sheriff and was the longest serving sheriff, 12 years beginning Jan. 1, 1996 to Dec. 31, 2007. He focused on his education throughout his life, attending St. Peter’s Prep, class of 1959. He then went on to receive his bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University and masters in Criminal Justice from New Jersey City University.
Joseph’s biggest passion was physical fitness. Starting from his high school years, he was eventually inducted into the St. Peter’s Prep Hall of Fame for Baseball 1958 and for the undefeated 1958 football team. He was an avid runner, completing several marathons, including New York City. He was a masterful handball player, honing his skills at the Jersey City YMCA. He won numerous local, state and regional titles in his age group. At the ages of 50 and 55, he was the National 3 wall singles champion. In his later years, Joseph became a strong advocate for the Police Unity Tour. He completed the 300 mile ride to Washington, D.C. several times. He rode the tour for his final time in his 70th year, in 2011.
Joseph was a member of numerous organizations including the Jersey City Police PSOA, Jersey City Emerald Society, Jersey City Fraternal Order of Police. He was the New Jersey State National Trustee from 1979-1986 and a member of the Hudson County 200 Club serving on their executive board.
Predeceased by his parents Iolanda Critelli Cassidy and Joseph Cassidy, he is survived by his wife of 49 years, Marietta Esposito Cassidy: his daughter Patricia Cassidy Stella (Captain JCPD) and her husband Angelo Stella; his brother John Cassidy (retired Lieutenant JCPD), his sister Patricia and her husband Dave Beaton; brothers-in-law Dennis and wife Carol Esposito, Ronad land wife Barbara Esposito; his uncle Thomas Critelli and wife Bernice and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Services arranged by the Greenville Memorial Home, 374 Jersey City.