Mr. Joe Wallace Poythress, 88, of Quitman, MS, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, peacefully surrounded by family on December 4, 2021.
Joe was born in Meridian, Mississippi, to the late John and Mary Poythress on December 16, 1932. He served six years as a pilot in the United States Air Force. In his 35-year career with AT&T Long Lines, Joe became Deputy Director of Overseas Operations and was passionate about his travels to over 77 countries. He loved the various cultures, meeting new people, and had many exciting adventures to share. His career gave Joe and his family the opportunity to experience living in multiple areas of the United States. In every place that Joe resided, he served the Lord and was very active in his local church, holding positions as Sunday school teacher, deacon, choir member, youth leader, and a Gideon. Outside of church, Joe enjoyed HAM radio, fishing, hunting, woodworking, and singing in the Barbershop Quartet. Other part time jobs after retirement to Brandon, MS, included being a 911 dispatch operator and a rural mail carrier.
Joe will be remembered as a kind and gentle man of God, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He always had a positive attitude and never let his 49-year struggle with MS and other illnesses steal his joy. Joe was an inspiration to all and always said, “Every day is a good day.”
Joe was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Pat and Mike.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Shirley (Young); his daughters, Julie Wilkinson (Ernie) and Amy Johnson (Brett); his grandchildren, Ryan Darby, Shane Darby (Krystle), Spencer Pulliam (Megan), and Connor Pulliam; his great granddaughters, Melody, Maddie, and Evie Pulliam; soon to arrive baby boy Darby; his brother Phil (Kathy); Pat’s wife, Dancy Poythress; and Mike’s wife, Vickie Poythress.
Honoring Joe’s final wishes, no public services are being conducted, and his earthly remains were donated to science for the betterment of mankind, particularly medical research for Multiple Sclerosis and Alzheimer’s. The family expresses their sincere thanks for the condolences and all the acts of kindness shown by extended family and friends. Joe was a special man and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
