Joseph Cleary, 61, of Oak Bluffs, died peacefully on Dec. 3, at the Royal Megansett Nursing Home in Falmouth after battling Alzheimer’s disease.

He was born to the late James and Joanne (White) Cleary on April 2, 1957. In 1971, the Clearys relocated to Oak Bluffs where he went to school and later Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, graduating class of 1977. He worked as a house painter for more than 30 years and was proud to employ his two daughters to work alongside him.

A man of few words, he had great advice, and was strong, yet gentle. He enjoyed working, fishing, car shows, collecting antiques and showing off his work. He loved everything about the Island and spending time with friends and family.

Joseph is survived by his daughters, Jaime Bodreau and Nicole Cleary, their mother, Mary (Collins) Cleary, his son-in-law, Adam Tucker and his siblings, Janice, Jason, Jeffery Cleary and Jerilyn Dube.

Visitation will be held at Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home in Oak Bluffs on Saturday, Dec. 15, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. A memorial mass will follow at St. Augustine’s Church, Vineyard Haven, at 11, and a reception at the VFW will follow the mass.

Donations may be made in his memory to Alzheimer’s Research, 8180 Greensboro Drive, Suite 400, McLean, VA 22102 or alz.org.

Visit ccgfuneralhome.com for online guest book and information.