On 95th Birthday celebrations of General Alfred M Gray, 29th Commandant of the United States Marine Corps, Col Flynn and Col John Kopka  United States Marine Corps Retired.

United States Marines celebrating life in Norfolk, VA.

I am so sorry to hear of the Colonel’s passing (and Lois’ before him). I worked for Joe after his retirement and basically learned everything I know about managing people from him. He took me under his wing and was an amazing mentor. He would give me enough rope to hang myself (as they say) but always kept his hand on the lever to save me from myself. I am forever grateful for his tutelage and for his and Lois’ friendship. We had some great times in Crystal City (and other places). I will never forget Joe and what he did for my career. RIP and Semper Fi!

COL,
    You will be truly missed.  

My kids absolutely loved going on trips to Annapolis to visit Grandpa Joe and Grandma Lois.

I wish we had taken more of them.

I always appreciated how warmly you and Mom welcomed me into your home that first weekend I got to leave the Yard as a plebe for 12 hours of feeling “normal.”  Even if I was in my regulation blue rims, the few hours on those Saturdays to start Plebe Year were a welcome respite.

You were always there for me when I needed it and every football game during my time on the Yard and since, I always came to the class of 59 to check in on you two.  And always left with a full belly and a warm hug. 

Thank you for all the sage advice and always making me and my family feel welcome and loved.  I still keep Mom’s angel in my wallet.

I will cherish the memories of always feeling like your home was my home and take solace that you and Lois will be together forever in Heaven.

Thanks for everything, COL.

With Love and Very Respectfully,
Rex and family

Every year, Jo and Louise would visit us  in Aruba and tell us his stories and of the US. A great story teller and someone that shows us the US can be a good place to go and visit. We will miss him. 
My father on the right has also passed away 2 years ago. He called me for condoleances. 
May they both now rest in peace.
From Aruba

Colonel Joe Flynn, you and Lois brought so much happiness to my wife, Elaine, and me every Sunday at church at St. John Neumann. We always looked forward to seeing you at church and then sharing breakfast together at Chick’n Ruth’s in Annapolis.

You were truly one of a kind. I will always appreciate your dedicated service to our great country in the United States Marine Corps, as well as the wonderful stories you shared with us about the Naval Academy and Roger Staubach. Those conversations and memories will always hold a special place in our hearts.

And the Navy games on Saturdays.

Thank you, Colonel Flynn, for your friendship, your kindness, your service, and all the wonderful memories. You touched our lives in a very special way, and you will never be forgotten.

God bless you and your family. I know you are now reunited with your lovely wife in Heaven, and I can only imagine the joy of the two of you being together again, looking down and watching over all of us.

Thank you for everything, Sir. Thank you for the memories.

You will truly be missed. May you rest in eternal peace. Semper Fi.
Your friends Ed and Elaine Davila - God Bless you and your family

Pappy Flynn was a leader, a patriot and a Giant among men. He was such an important inspiration and mentor to so many! He had the biggest heart and helped so many throughout his long impactful life. He always made me laugh and was such a wonderful role model. The deep love he showed Mama Flynn, all the kids and grandkids, and to all of the Lott family is a blessing and a treasure! Bless him for his proud military service to our great nation! I will miss his stories, wisdom, inspirational faith, and his abiding example. He lives in our hearts and memories forever! Semper Fi to the Colonel!

OBITUARY

Joseph Francis Flynn

January 31, 1936 – August 4, 2026

John M. Taylor Funeral Home

Show your support

Send Flowers

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services

Memorial Mass

Inurnment

Memorial Reception