Edward T. Cetnar on the Passing of Retired PAPD Superintendent Henry I. DeGeneste
“It is with great sadness that we share the passing of retired Port Authority Police Superintendent Henry I. DeGeneste, who died on September 13, 2026.
“For those who knew, worked with or learned from Henry, his passing is the loss of a remarkable member of the Port Authority Police family. Although his PAPD career ended in 1990, his impact on the Department is still felt today.
“Henry joined the PAPD in 1967 and graduated at the top of his Academy class. He rose through the ranks to become the Department’s first African American superintendent. Throughout his career, he was committed to creating opportunities for others and building a police department that reflected the communities it served.
“His influence extended well beyond the PAPD. He was respected nationally and internationally for his expertise in law enforcement, transportation security and community policing. He also co-authored Policing Transportation Facilities and spent more than a decade as a professor at John Jay College, where he helped prepare the next generation of law enforcement and security professionals.
“Even after retiring from the PAPD, Henry remained an active and respected voice in the security profession, serving as a consultant, adviser and lecturer.
“Henry’s legacy is defined not only by the positions he held but also by the people he influenced, the opportunities he created and the example he set for those who followed.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to Henry’s family, friends, former colleagues and all who had the privilege of knowing him. We are grateful for his service, leadership and lasting contributions to the Port Authority Police Department.
“Rest in peace, Superintendent DeGeneste. Your service and legacy will endure.”
Funeral arrangements are private.