Joel William Rae

Our hearts ache, even while we take solace that our son, brother and friend enters heaven to be with the Lord. Joel William Rae, age 26, of Johns Creek/Marietta, passed away on July 30, 2015 with family and friends by his side.

Perhaps Joel felt an affinity to dogs because their idea of love – unconditional, forgiving, and whole-hearted - mimics the way Joel loved his family and friends. Or maybe it was how they are playful and active, because Joel loved competition and sports. Or maybe it was because they can be goofy and not care that anyone knows it, because Joel definitely could do that. Whatever the reason, Joel’s life embodied that of the playful puppy.

Joel pursued life’s happiness in the big things, like the love of those around him. But he also pursued it in the small things, like watching Three Stooges movies, cheering for Notre Dame or trying to make babies laugh and smile. His outbursts of laughter, even at his own jokes or silly antics, lifted your spirits and made it impossible not to smile.

Joel was born on August 26, 1988 in Chamblee, Georgia. He is survived by his loving family: parents Joel & Brenda Rae and Sharon & David Shepherd, his sisters Lauren (Rae) Light, Callie Shepherd, Melanie Fox and Melissa Fox, his brothers Thomas Shepherd and Chris Fox and his two beloved labradoodles Maggie May and Ginger.

We will celebrate Joel’s life at a memorial service held at 10:30 on Tuesday, August 4th at the Alpharetta First United Methodist Church (69 N Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009). Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please feel encouraged to honor Joel’s love of both animals and the helpless and donate to Angels Among Us Pet Rescue (PO Box 821, Alpharetta, GA 30009).