Joe B Marcus

Joe was born on October 13, 1934, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Eve and Emmanuel Marcus and was raised in Indianapolis. His father owned theaters in Indiana and Ohio, exposing Joe early to a lively and entertaining world that helped shape his charismatic spirit. He graduated from Shortridge High School and attended the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, where he proudly embraced Crimson Tide traditions and was a member of the Glee Club.

After college, Joe moved to Louisville, Kentucky, where he built a life defined by entrepreneurship, public service, and an enduring passion for automobiles. He founded and operated several successful businesses, including Grand Prix Motors, and became a respected figure in Louisville’s automotive community. Racing was not just a pastime but a lifelong pursuit. Joe competed at tracks across the country, including Daytona and Sebring, and held a track record in the 2-liter class at the 24 Hours of Daytona.

Beyond his business achievements, Joe served as Sheriff of Graymoor, Kentucky, volunteered as a firefighter, and established a Louisville halfway house for teenage boys transitioning from juvenile institutions, where he mentored young men and promoted discipline and self-confidence through structured programs, including boxing.

In recognition of his distinguished civic leadership and service, he was awarded the Key to the City of Louisville and commissioned as an Ambassador of Good Will. In 1964, he was also commissioned as a Kentucky Colonel, the Commonwealth’s highest honor.

In 1983, Joe relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where he worked in the communications industry before founding Beeper International in 1988, becoming a pioneer in mobile communications. The company grew to service hospitals and healthcare systems and was successfully sold in 1993, allowing him to enter early retirement at age 58.

Joe had a lifelong love of animals and owned multiple rare breed dogs throughout the years, as well as several exotic animals. His appreciation for animals was a constant source of joy in his life.

In August 2022, Joe and Cindy moved to Englewood, Florida, where they enjoyed their years near the water.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eve and Emmanuel Marcus; his sister, Marlene (Si) Beere; and his first wife, Sally Marcus, the mother of his children.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Cindy Marcus; his children, Todd Marcus (Kathy), Kimberly Thompson (Brendan), and Wendy Fryman (Patrick); his eight grandchildren, Zachary Marcus (Lauren), Brittany Camphouse (Jaden), Chandler Marcus, Dylan Marcus, Trenton Fryman (Kelsi), Avery Fryman, Conor Thompson, and Layne Thompson; and nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Doug Robson, and two nieces and two nephews.

Joe will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, entrepreneurial drive, generosity, and deep love for family. His stories were legendary, his friendships lasting, and his presence unforgettable.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Suncoast Humane Society of Englewood, Florida, in Joe’s memory.

A private celebration of life will be held at Boca Royale Golf and Country Club, Englewood, Florida, for family and close friends. The family also plans gatherings in Atlanta, Georgia, and Louisville, Kentucky, to honor his life.