Ralph Roy Genova of Southampton died on March 17, 2019, with his granddaughter at his bedside. He was 95.
Born August 20, 1923, he met the love of his life, Katherine, just before entering the Marine Corps. One of the last surviving World War II Pearl Harbor veterans, Mr. Genova was trained by the FBI as a sharpshooter. One of the highlights of his esteemed and decorated military career was secretly escorting President Franklin D. Roosevelt off a warship after the bombings, onto the Pearl Harbor base. He was honorably discharged in January 1946. President Truman sent a letter thanking him for his service. He was honored once again in 2012 in Washington, D.C. when he participated in an Honor Flight visit.
Shortly after his military career ended, he moved to Southampton with his wife to raise his family. The couple had five sons and 46 years together. He owned and operated Roy Genova Services, a carpet and upholstery cleaning business. He was an active member of the Elks Club, Southampton Rotary and the Basilica Parish of Sacred Heart of Jesus and Mary. Upon his retirement, he enjoyed continuing his travels, his love for boating and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Survivors said he was a humble man who will be remembered for his sense of humor, his love of God and country, and his strong sense of family.
Mr. Genova was predeceased by his wife, Katherine; and three sons. He is survived by two sons, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as countless friends and extended family.
A funeral service was held on March 22 at the Basilica in Southampton.
Memorial donations may be sent to Southampton Senior Services, Heart of the Hamptons, or East End Hospice and the Kanas Center for Hospice Care.
on Mar 25, 2019