He was one of the good guys in the world – fair, easy to talk to and known as the guy who got the job done.

Such were the tributes paid by Chenango County leaders, friends and colleagues about the life and legacy of the late Sheriff Joseph Benenati Jr. yesterday as they learned of his death at age 97.

Most acknowledged that Joe Benenati was one of the greatest public servants they had ever known, having spent 24 years with the New York State Police and 22 as Chenango County Sheriff on top of a distinguished five-year career in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Second World War.

“His whole life was dedicated to helping people. There’s no greater tribute to him than the service that he did in this county and for the country,” said Chenango County Sheriff Ernest Cutting.

Cutting’s predecessor, former Sheriff Thomas J. Loughren, said Benenati was the most influential person in his life outside of his own father. He was a mentor, teaching Loughren the ins and outs of public service beginning from when he was a cadet, and later, encouraging Loughren to run for sheriff. Benenati remained a sounding board and friend to Loughren up until his death.