Joe loved to deer hunt, bass fish, watch football, both college and NFL, and spend time with his family and friends. He was a die-hard southern rock music fan. He also held an honorable discharge from the Army National Guard in 1983. Joe had a fierce spirit that allowed him to overcome some major hardships for many years. He always dealt a full hand of cards and allowed you to choose which hand you played in his life. He had many loyal friends and loved them all like brothers.
Joe is survived by his loving partner, Tolly, who stood by his side for 35 years. He also leaves behind a daughter, Lindsey JoBeth and a step-son, Josh whom he loved dearly; but most of all he was "Papa" to his grandson Sawyer who meant the world to him. Joe is also survived by one brother, Randy and wife Linda of Lake Village; two sisters, Cassie and Eddie Edwards of Dermott and Lisa and Ronnie Ashley of Clarksville; and his twin brother, Jeff who preceded him in death; plus many nieces, nephews, and cousins. The family would like to issue a special thanks and gratitude to Mike and John Ward, Don Marter, Blondie, David, Ms. Jane, Cindy, and Wanda at War Eagle Boats.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Joe's favorite charities, St. Jude's Children Hospital, or the Arkansas Food Bank.
A memorial service celebrating his life will be Saturday, February 26, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. at Temple Baptist Church in Dermott, Arkansas.
Condolences(8)
RICHARD BUCHE
Stockton, MO Tuesday, March 1, 2022 I am so sorry to hear of his passing. He and I worked together for many many years as I suppled all the fasteners to build the Team Ward Boat line. Joe and I used to exchange pictures of deer hunts. I’ve never forgotten the first time I met him the day he turned the business over to me. After I left the Business and Retired he continued to reach out to me. I will miss him.RICHARD BUCHE
Stockton, MO Tuesday, March 1, 2022 I am so sorry to hear of his passing. He and I worked together for many many years as I suppled all the fasteners to build the Team Ward Boat line. Joe and I used to exchange pictures of deer hunts. I’ve never forgotten the first time I met him the day he turned the business over to me. After I left the Business and Retired he continued to reach out to me. I will miss him.RICHARD BUCHE
Stockton, MO Tuesday, March 1, 2022 I am so sorry to hear of his passing. He and I worked together for many many years as I suppled all the fasteners to build the Team Ward Boat line. Joe and I used to exchange pictures of deer hunts. I’ve never forgotten the first time I met him the day he turned the business over to me. After I left the Business and Retired he continued to reach out to me. I will miss him.RICHARD BUCHE
Stockton, MO Tuesday, March 1, 2022 I am so sorry to hear of his passing. He and I worked together for many many years as I suppled all the fasteners to build the Team Ward Boat line. Joe and I used to exchange pictures of deer hunts. I’ve never forgotten the first time I met him the day he turned the business over to me. After I left the Business and Retired he continued to reach out to me. I will miss him.RICHARD BUCHE
Stockton, MO Tuesday, March 1, 2022 I am so sorry to hear of his passing. He and I worked together for many many years as I suppled all the fasteners to build the Team Ward Boat line. Joe and I used to exchange pictures of deer hunts. I’ve never forgotten the first time I met him the day he turned the business over to me. After I left the Business and Retired he continued to reach out to me. I will miss him.Dr. Bob Stark
Monticello, AR Monday, February 28, 2022 Josh and Family,My sympathy is extended to each of you in the passing of Joe. I pray that God will wrap His arms of love around you through the coming days.
Denise Smith Frost
MONTICELLO, AR Thursday, February 24, 2022 Tolly, I am so very sorry to read about Joe. Please know you all are in my prayers.Judy (Fong) Smith
Jacksonville, AR Wednesday, February 23, 2022 Tolly, I am so sorry to read about your loss. God has placed you on my heart recently and I have wondered what was going on in your life as I prayed for you and yours. I lost my husband in 2008 and I remarried in 2016. Only the Lord can heal a broken heart and he will. - Judy