Joseph P. Elinsky, 87, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at home on June 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on February 12, 1939, in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, Joe was the son of Joseph H. Elinsky and Esther Elinsky. A proud lifelong resident of Northeastern Pennsylvania, he lived a life defined by family, hard work, kindness, and an appreciation for the simple joys that make life meaningful.

Joe attended Wyoming Seminary, where he excelled both academically and athletically, playing baseball and basketball, serving as captain of the basketball team. He continued his athletic career at Dickinson College. A standout basketball player, he led the team in scoring and rebounding and established records that remain part of the program's history today.

Joe proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1961 to 1964. He was stationed at Fort Knox, Kentucky, before later serving at Fort Indiantown Gap in Annville, Pennsylvania. The values of duty, integrity, and perseverance that he developed during his military service remained evident throughout his life.

Following in the footsteps of his parents, Joe proudly carried on the family legacy through Noble Furniture in Nanticoke, which faithfully served generations of local families for over 50 years. He took great pride in continuing a tradition built on hard work and honesty.

In 1972, Joe married the love of his life, Jeanne. Together they built a life centered on family, laughter, and enduring devotion. Their 54 years of marriage were a testament to their deep love, unwavering partnership, and commitment to one another.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph H. Elinsky and Esther Elinsky (née Moran); his brother, Paul David Elinsky; and his daughter, Jeannie Dorang.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Jeanne Elinsky (née Roscoe); his daughter, Kim Elinsky Mericle; his son, Joseph Scott Elinsky; his son-in-law, Robert K. Mericle; his daughter-in-law, Lori Dexter; his grandchildren, Kelly Mericle Gregory (Shane), Katelyn Mericle Hoxha (Barjam), Kristen Mericle Williams (Julian), and Robert J. Mericle (Cameron Bergey); and his great-grandchildren, Isabelle Mericle Gregory and Viola Mericle Williams.

He was happiest in the company of those he loved most. He will be remembered by family and friends for his kindness and warmth, which was extended to everyone he encountered, and for the twinkle in his eye when he delivered his famous quips at family gatherings around the kitchen table. He also cherished the companionship of his cats—Fifi, Midnight, Peanut, and Mia—who brought him comfort and joy in recent years. Joe had an array of impressive hobbies including creative writing, bowling, cooking, singing Broadway show tunes, rooting for his favorite teams: the Phillies, Eagles, and Villanova Wildcats, and cultivating South Wilkes-Barre’s premier vegetable garden.

After facing health challenges in recent years, which he met with resilience, dignity, and an unwavering sense of humor, Joe passed away peacefully at home.

Joe’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Dr. Alfred Casale and the outstanding medical teams at Geisinger Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre and Danville for their exceptional care and compassion. The family is also forever grateful to his physical therapist, Eric Paczewski, Mary Erwine, the staff of Erwine Homecare and Hospice, and his caregivers, Eric and Luka, whose kindness and friendship brought comfort and dignity to Joe and his family.

Though deeply missed, Joe’s memory will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends. His legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to family will endure for generations.

Visitation will be held on Saturday June 20, 2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m., followed by a funeral mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. Nicholas St. Mary’s Parish in Wilkes-Barre at 226 S. Washington Street.

If you wish to make a donation in Joe’s memory, please send contributions to the Cancer Wellness Center of NEPA at 190 Welles Street, Suite 166, Forty Fort, PA 18704.

Share memories and condolences with Joe’s family at mjmclaughlin.com