Joseph D. Singleton, a retired District Chief of the Syracuse Fire Department, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on September 15, 2025, in The Villages, Florida. He was born on May 29, 1944, in Syracuse, New York.
Joe lived a life of service, dedication, and passion. He began his career with the United States Navy as a proud Seabee before joining the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Department. He went on to serve the Syracuse Fire Department for 31 years, where his leadership, commitment, and brotherhood left a lasting impact on his colleagues and community. Firefighting was not just a profession for Joe—it was his calling, and he cherished the bond he shared with his fellow firefighters.
Beyond his career, Joe found great joy in classic American cars. His love of restoration began with a 1978 Corvette Indy Pace Car, later followed by a Mustang Bullitt that earned him national recognition with the Mustang Club of America (MCA). He went on to achieve success showing both his Bullitt and convertible, eventually becoming a certified MCA judge. For 15 years, Joe proudly served as president and board member of his local Mustang Club Chapter, where he helped organize events, led countryside cruises, and traveled to car shows nationwide. These adventures were shared with his beloved wife and partner of 60 years, Kathy, who was always by his side—clipboard in hand, selling tickets, directing traffic, or polishing cars.
Joe was also a man of creativity and imagination. His artistic talents found expression in drawing, small-scale modeling, photography, writing, and even designing golf carts. He left behind a legacy of ingenuity and artistry that enriched the lives of those who knew him.
He is survived by his loving wife, Kathy; daughters, Kim and Karen; grandson, Ryan; sister, Sally (Wayne); sisters-in-law, Carol (Fred) and Roe; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother, Doris, and his cherished grand-dog, Harley.
A Celebration of Life will be held in February 2026 at Bushnell Veterans National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe’s memory to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (www.t2t.org) or to your local Humane Society Animal Shelter.