Dunn, NC — Mr. Berto Gabriel Genao Frias, age 89, of Davis Ave, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 20, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Genao was born on January 10, 1937, in Castillo, Dominican Republic, to the late Berto Genao and Baudilia Frias. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by many of his (13) brothers and sisters.

A dedicated military officer, Mr. Genao served in the Dominican Air Force for 10 years, achieving the rank of Colonel. At just 24 years old, he took a courageous stand against the overthrow of President Juan Bosch, playing a pivotal role in defending Dominican democracy on June 15, 1963. As one of only twelve men who volunteered to directly protect President Bosch, he became part of the core military nucleus that helped lay the foundation for the constitutionalist movement of 1965.

Following his distinguished military service, Mr. Genao transitioned into business, owning and operating two successful pharmacies in Santo Domingo for many years. In 1988, he immigrated to the United States, settling in Jersey City.

Throughout his life, he held a deep passion for nature, history, and astronomy. He loved tending to his gardens, woodworking, swimming in beaches and rivers, reading, playing the guitar, and listening to classical music—especially Mozart. Above all else, Mr. Genao cherished his family. He was a devoted protector and took immense joy in spoiling his grandchildren.

Surviving include his former spouse, Maritza Luciano; daughters, Altagracia Genao, Berta A. Genao, Tammy Genao, Madeleine Genao, and Mabel Genao; son, Wingly Genao; grandchildren, Karen Calcano, Carol Calcano, Krystal Calcano, George Calcano, Jeremy Calcano, Ariel Mercedes, Jonathan Mercedes, Caitlin Kates, Yibel Genao, Natalie Kates, Heysha Genao, Angel Genao, Juan Carlos Martines Genao, Dorca Martinez Genao, Stefanie Martines Genao, Cherly Martines Genao, Vinson Thomas, Vida Thomas, and Bodhi Thomas; and great-grandchildren, Nathan Calcano Da Silva, Aiden Calcano Da Silva, Sebastian Ortega, Gianna Calcano, Adam Calcano, Mia Mercedes, Zoe Mercedes, Elia Rose Mercedes, Ariel Jr. AJ Mercedes, and Georgio Fontanazza.

The family will receive friends at Rose & Graham Funeral Home in Benson, NC, for viewing from 12:30 PM to 1:30 Thursday September 24, 2026. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at Greenwood Cemetery in Dunn, NC. The family will also receive friends at the home of Wingly Genao at other times.

The family deeply appreciates your thoughts, prayers, and support during this time. Online condolences may be shared at www.roseandgraham.com.

Arrangements are by Rose & Graham Funeral Home, Benson, NC.