Joseph Paul Little, II

Joe Little traveled the world, but he always came back to where he was most comfortable: with his family, friends, and dogs in the mesquite trees and buffelgrass fields of his South Texas ranch. Joe loved a South Texas sunset, a good cigar, and a glass of red wine. He loved tennis and had regular matches for years with close friends. He loved the outdoors and was an avid fisherman, bird hunter, and bow hunter. Joe also grew up riding horses in Crystal City.

Everyone who met Joe will agree that he was fair, honest, intelligent and spoke his mind, with integrity. He was compassionate and generous. He listened before he spoke, was a man of few words, and his words meant something. He was devoted to his entire family, both immediate and extended. Family always came first for Joe, and he lived his life to ensure that his family was taken care of. He loved practical jokes, especially on April Fools’ Day, and we will always remember his chuckle. Joe lived a full life and touched so many along the way.

Joe was born on Christmas Eve, 1944 in Madill, Oklahoma. He graduated from the University of Texas with a B.S. in Accounting and a J.D. from the University of Texas Law School. After a short career in the tax department at Ernst & Ernst in San Antonio, Joe returned to Crystal City, Texas where he worked as a farmer, rancher, oil man and business owner. Additionally, he was a member of the Texas Farm Credit Board for over 30 years, during which he served as chair and head of the audit committee.

He is survived by his wife of over 50 years Carolyn Little, his daughter Jennifer Polak (and husband Sam) in Dallas, Texas, his son Paul Little (and wife O’Kelley) in San Antonio, Texas, his sister Jill Petry (and husband John) in Carrizo Springs, Texas, and grandchildren Claire Polak, Matthew Polak, Fielding Little, Hallie Little, and many more family members. He was preceded in death by his mother LaVerne Little, his father Joseph Paul Little, and brother James Little.

A memorial service to celebrate Joe’s life will be held at First United Methodist Church in Carrizo Springs on September 25, 2021, beginning at 1:00 p.m. The family would like to express our gratitude to Joe’s caregivers at Franklin Park, Encompass Health, Amada Senior Care, and all our family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers who have prayed for comfort for Joe and his family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association, in memory of Joe, or introducing a child to hunting, fishing, hiking or horseback riding