Joseph Donald Southard, aged 74, of Rockford, Illinois passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2026. He was born on April 11, 1951 to LT and Carmen (Jones) Southard in Athens, Alabama. Joseph worked for many years at the Chrysler plant. He married the love of his life, Marsha Galloway, in 1974.
Joseph enjoyed watching all sports and rooting for his favorite teams, the Bears, Bulls, Cubs, and Alabama Crimson Tide. He also liked watching classic western movies and game shows like the Price is Right and Family Feud. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family.
Joseph is survived by his wife of 51 years, Marsha Southard; children, Joseph Dion Southard, Donald (Angela) Southard, Chamelle Southard, and Demetrius Southard; grandchildren, DeVontez Davis, Tiaja McShane, Steven Southard, and Kingston Southard; great-grandchildren, Peyton King and Sonali Kolb; siblings, LT Southard, William Southard, Brenda Southard-Malone, Judy Ann Damon, Tammy Southard, and Priscilla Davis; aunt, Helen Jones; uncle, Eddie Southard; special cousin, Felix Washington; along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his son, Angelo Southard; and parents, LT and Carmen Southard.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Association.
A visitation for Joseph will be held on Thursday, March 5 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church, 2919 19th St, Rockford, IL 61109, with a funeral service to follow at 12:00 pm officiated by Rev. Dr. Louis Edward Malone. Burial rites will be accorded at Willwood Burial Park, 7000 W State St, Rockford, IL 61102.
