Lawrence Bing Joe

Joe Bing Tong, known to all as Lawrence Joe, entered the arms of Jesus on August 19, 2011. Born on June 16, 1922, the Year of the Dog, in the Hong Kong district of Yuen Long, he immigrated to Houston, Texas in 1929.

Throughout his life Joe remained a prominent figure in the grocery and real estate business. He spent tireless hours working with and mentoring family, friends and employees. He was a vibrant individual who loved people. All who were fortunate enough to know him warmly embraced “Mr. Lawrence’s” wit and charm.

He was a World War II veteran who proudly served in the United States Air Corps and enjoyed a long relationship with American Legion Lodge # 1596.

Returning to Houston after the war, he married Barnette Berry and became the proud and loving father of two very successful daughters who inherited his passion for life. Glenda Kay Joe and Cookie Joe continue to be prominent contributors in advocacy and the arts.

Joe and his brother, Bill Bing Kay Joe owned several grocery stores and real estate properties. They worked tirelessly to bring their only sister, Tak Chun Chan and her four children to Houston.

On June 16, 1984, Lawrence Joe married Eleanor Underwood and became “Pops” to Sheryl, Michael, Daryl, Duane and Lawrence. All have also lived up to his standards and have done well in their endeavors.

Later in life, as most begin to enjoy a quieter time; he and Eleanor became parents to their infant granddaughter, Vanessa. Joe continued working daily until January 2011 and never missed an opportunity to attend Vanessa’s parties, recitals and school events.

He loved his life with Eleanor and idolized all of his children. He spoke fondly of Victor Lawrence Joe, eldest son of his brother Bill, as his son and taught him the virtues of hard work, patience and compassion.

Lawrence Joe’s house was filled with chaos, laughter, conversation and love. Everyone in his presence was considered family and no one was ever a stranger. He worked hard in his life and throughout his journey to the end, gave us all time to say goodbye. Everyone wanted just a few more seconds with this amazing man who will forever remain in our thoughts, memories and hearts.

He is survived by his wife Eleanor, his daughters; Glenda Kay Joe, Cookie Joe and husband Scott Arthur, Sheryl Maziarz and husband Chris, Vanessa Gonzalez and husband Eddie, Christine Salazar and husband Mike and also by his sons; Michael Underwood and wife Jennifer, Duane Underwood and wife Nancy, Daryl Underwood and Lawrence Underwood and wife Carol.

Other survivors include his grandchildren; Elvis Aron Presley, Keenan Underwood, Colleen Underwood, Holi Underwood, Eric Gonzales, Dora Salazar, Caleb Underwood, Faith Underwood, Anaceli Martinez, Cisco Pequeno, Amber Parham, Camden Maziarz, Tony Yeung and Tran Pham Rich along with his great grandchildren Aiden Cole Gonzalez and Jacob Maltez.

Sister-in-law, Sybol Joe, wife of his brother, nephews Victor Joe and wife, Ellen, Paul Chan and wife, Angela, Richard Chan and wife, Karen, Geary Joe and wife, Mary and Valerie Ng-Joe, wife of his nephew Bruce and nieces Maggie and husband, Him Jew, Ming and husband, King Wong also survive their Uncle Lawrence. Many grandnieces, grandnephews and friends will dearly miss him.

He is preceded in death by his brother, Bill Bing Kay Joe, his sister, Tak Chun Chan, and his nephew, Bruce Joe.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, August 24, 2011 from 5:00 to 9:00 PM at Brookside Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 PM on Thursday, August 25, 2011 at Unity Baptist Church. 21772 East Memorial Dr. Porter, TX 77365.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made in his honor to the Unity Baptist Church of Porter, Texas where Lawrence Joe was a proud and active member.