Joseph "Oscar" Kearney

Joseph “Oscar” Kearney

July 28, 2026

It is with heartful sadness that we announce the death of our beloved brother, Joe “Oscar” Kearney, who passed away peacefully at the Gino J. Merli Veteran’s Center on July 28, 2026 after a long illness.

Joe was born on August 30, 1956 to William J. and Esther Ratchford Kearney. A proud Green Ridge native, Joe attended St Paul’s grade school, Bishop Hannan High School (Class of1974), and attended Penn State University. Joe honorably served his country in the United States Army stationed in Germany. After his honorable discharge, he returned home and began a 27 year career at the Lackawanna County Prison serving as a Correctional Officer and retiring with the title of Sergeant. Joe was a friend to all and an advisor to many. He truly enjoyed life, whether he was gathering with his friends at Andy Gavin’s or on his Penn Avenue front porch. He was a lifelong PSU Nittany Lions, Dallas Cowboys, and NY Yankees Fan. He loved nothing more than rooting for his beloved teams. Joe was deeply loved and respected by countless neighbors, coworkers, caregivers and friends. He will be deeply missed by many.

Joe is survived by his devoted sisters, Joan Brogan (Tom) and Marilyn Hunt (Bocker) of Dunmore, his brothers William J. (Sharon) of Blakely, Paul (Grace) of Larksville and Brian of Tucson, AZ as well as many nieces and nephews who brought him great joy. He is also survived by his devoted friends Peggy Howley, Tommy McCarthy, Lauren Holleran and his pug buddy Norm who brought Joe much comfort.

The Kearney family wishes to extend endless gratitude and appreciation to every teammate at Gino Merli for the love, care and dedication that they showered upon our precious brother, Joe. Joe loved you all. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday August 3, 2026 at 10 am in St. Paul’s Church, 1510 Penn Ave, Scranton, Pa . Relatives and friends may call from 9:00 am until the time of the mass. Burial, with full military honors, at Dunmore Cemetery will follow.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Joe’s good friend Frank Regan, and the Frank M. Regan Funeral Home, 323 William St. Scranton.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the St Paul Parish Food Pantry, 1510 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18509