PORTSMOUTH—Joseph Francis Penello "Joey," 57, of Portsmouth passed away May 12, 2022.  He is the son of Dorothy S. Penello and of the late Capt. Tony Penello.

One of Joey's true passions in life was the entertainment industry.  Through his work in Public Relations at Peta, he developed beautiful working relationships with various dignified celebrities in the film, music, and television industries.  In his first career, through his psychology background, he worked with children living at The Pines, helping them to find their way in life.

Joey was the valedictorian of his class of 1983 at Portsmouth Catholic High School and a graduate of William & Mary.  He maintained very close friendships with friends who loved him dearly, who came from different periods of his life - a circle of caring friends who kept in touch daily.

Joey faced many health challenges over the years, yet very often recovered from them with unexpected resilience.  He had a very strong desire to live and overcome illness, a true inspiration to all.  And on top of everything he went through, everyone he met always called him the sweetest guy they ever met.  Joey really touched the hearts of many people in many ways, ways all his own.

Joey is survived by his mother, Dorothy Penello; sister Anne P. Scribner (J.C.); brothers Anthony Penello (Janet) and Bill Penello; and his nieces and nephews whom he loved very dearly: Allison Scribner Gehman, Nick Scribner, Meredith Scribner Mandel, and Christopher Penello.

A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Thursday, May 19, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 522 High St., Portsmouth, followed by burial at Olive Branch Cemetery. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be sent in his name to Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters (CHKD.org). Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com.