Joe Lewis Joseph Jr.

We are gathered here today to celebrate the life of a great man, whose presence was a gift to all who knew and loved him. Though are hearts are heavy with sorrow we are filled with gratitude for the remarkable years Joe lived among us, and for the legacy he leaves behind.

Joe Lewis Joseph Jr affectionally called “Baby Joe” by loved ones was born on October 20th, 1985 in Orlando FL to Joe Lewis Joseph Sr and the late Dalphana Tisdale.

Joe graduated from Oak Ridge High School in 2004 and was later inducted to the school’s Hall of Fame. Joe attended the University of Miami where he played both defensive end and defensive tackle for the Hurricanes from 2006 to 2009.

After a strong college career Joe entered the NFL in 2010 as an undrafted free agent with the Tennessee Titans. Joe went on to join the New York Giants and Washington Redskins practice squads. He was later promoted to Washington’s active roster and was able to play in his first NFL game. He was waived in 2011.

Four years later Joe reconnected with his high school sweetheart Venite Joseph. In 2018 they married and together they made a beautiful family. After his step father passed away, Joe took pride in caring for his mother until she sadly passed away in 2022. After the passing away of his mother Joe struggled with grief. But vowed to make his mother proud.

Joe greatly valued spending his weekends engaged in activities with his family. One of his most cherished traditions was taking his son, Jeremiah, for their Friday haircuts, a weekly ritual they affectionately referred to as “Fresh Cut Fridays.”

Beyond his work, Joe was a vibrant spirit. He gave back to his community in various ways. From volunteering as a flag football coach, to holding toy drives and turkey drives within the community he grew up in.

To all of us, Joe was a protector, a provider, and a friend. He enjoyed being a father and husband. He was a man of God and served at The Kingdom Church as Armor Bearer. Joe loved football, dancing and most of all representing his Alma mater and throwing up the “U”.

He was preceded in death by his mother Dalphana Tisdale, stepfather Ricky Tisdale, brother Antienne Richaè Tisdale, and aunt Eunice Wilson.

He leaves behind to cherish memories of him:

His wife- Venite Joseph; children- Rishiah Joseph, Rachell Joseph and Jeremiah King Joseph; grandson- Josiah Wil Joseph; Father-Joe Lewis Joseph Sr; sisters- Dietra Barfield, Tabitha Smith, Ebony Cooper, and Shamia Tisdale; brother- Jonathan Smith.

Joe was also deeply loved by a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

May Joe Lewis Joseph Jr rest in eternal peace. And may we, his family and friends, continue to live in a way that honors the legacy he has left in our hearts.

We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the lord.