Joe Lionetti, 79, a well-known American antiques dealer in New York and Connecticut, died October 31, at St Francis Hospital, after a lingering illness.

Born May 6, 1928, in Greenwich, Conn., he served in the US Army Second Armored Division in Germany from 1950 to 1952. After his service, he continued his previous employment with Conde Nast Publications.

His career in the antiques field began in 1955 working for John S. Walton Antiques, Inc, first in New York City and later in Old Lyme and Griswold, Conn. He became a well respected authority on Eighteenth and early Nineteenth Century American furniture. Joe’s passion and forte was formal furniture from the Queen Anne through the Federal periods. He worked closely with curators representing major institutions such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the State Department and the White House.

Joe enjoyed sharing his knowledge and expertise in various lectures and forums. He valued the many friendships he developed within the antiques field, both with collectors and colleagues.

Always recognized as a gentleman, everyone enjoyed and will remember his warm, modest personality and uplifting humor.

Joe is survived by his three children: Joanne Gerow of Swan Lake, N.Y.; Robert Lionetti of Lyme, Conn.; and Joseph B. Lionetti of Niantic, Conn. He leaves seven grandchildren.

A private family service will be held to honor him.