Joseph T. “Cowboy” Vinci, 95, a native and lifelong resident of Haverhill, died suddenly Thursday, June 2, at his home and surrounded by his family.
Son of the late Gaetano and Mary (Flammia) Vinci, he attended Haverhill Public Schools and was a U. S Army veteran of World War Two. Honorably discharged as a technical sergeant he was a recipient of the Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal and the European, African, Middle Eastern Theater Campaign Ribbon with three service stars. Vinci was employed for 27 years in the Pentucket Mills, and later Marlen Mills and, finally, for 12 years at Malden Mills in Lawrence, retiring in 1981. A member of All Saint Parish of Haverhill, Garibaldi Club and Disabled American Veterans, he enjoyed trips to Foxwoods, Mohegan Su, and Rockingham Park, playing cards and spending time with his family. He proudly served as the best man at his grandson Tad’s wedding in 2013 at the age of 92.
Predeceased by his wife Irene (Archambault) Vinci in 2007, he leaves two sons and daughters-in-law, Thomas J. and Alice Vinci of Plaistow, N.H., and Peter M. and Maureen Vinci of Haverhill; five grandchildren, Tad Vinci, Thea Mose, Samantha Vinci, Holly DeLuca and Vernon Bushway, 12 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandson, and several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours were Sunday, Berube-Comeau Funeral Home, 47 Broadway, Haverhill, and his funeral was this morning at All Saints Church, 120 Bellevue Ave., Haverhill. Burial with Military Honors is in Saint Joseph Cemetery. The family requests that memorial donations be made to The Veterans Northeast Outreach Center, 10 Reed St., Haverhill, MA.