Mr. Joseph Washington

Joseph Washington was born December 19, 1932 in Madisonville, KY to Henry and Maggie (Williams) Washington. One of five siblings, Joe, as he was affectionately known, stayed in Madisonville until he graduated from Rosenwald High School. Upon the completion of his education, he entered the U.S. Army and loyally served his Country until his honorable discharge in 1955; he then moved to Indiana and rarely left the state thereafter. Following a long bout with multiple health issues he went home to be with the Lord on Friday, February 24, 2012 at the age of 79.

Joe gave his life to Christ in 1961. He became a member of Sanders Temple COGIC (under the leadership of Pastor James Sanders), where he met his "love at first sight" sweetheart, Jean Griffea. They were married on July 2, 1962, had four children, and maintained marital bliss for 49 wonderful years.

Joe enjoyed fishing, singing and playing the piano. At Sanders Temple, he organized and directed the youth choir and later directed the adult choir; he also played piano for several other churches around the city. Spending time with grandchildren was a favorite pastime and he often made wall photo collages of his family and friends. Dispelling all stereotypes, Joe LOVED fried chicken and would often (always) request it, against doctor's orders. To support his beloved family he labored tirelessly, working multiple jobs at one time. He retired from Central State Hospital in 1988. Although, he was a large man in stature with a loud, burly voice, most would agree that he was as gentle as a teddy bear and had a huge heart.

Over the years, as life became progressively more difficult for Joe, he displayed a "fight" and "will" that those close to him will carry on throughout their own lives. Joseph, Daddy, Grandpa, we love you and will strive to continue your legacy.

Joe leaves to cherish his memory, his wife Jean; daughters, Laconia and Angelita; sons, Dwight (Dwanda) and Clifford (Stacey); two brothers, Henry Lee (Azalee) and Arlester (Vonnette); sister, Marie; eleven grandchildren; Dwight Jr. (Jessica), Latoyia, Arian, Don, Deona, Daesha, Cameron (Ashley), Jala, Dae'Dreona, Beauty, and Maliq; ten great-grandchildren, along with a host of other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and twin brother Joel.