Joe Harmon Joiner

Joe grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas where he spent most of his childhood with dreams of becoming a fighter pilot. When WWII started he applied to Army and Navy flight training program. The Army took him first. During WWII Joe was stationed in Debden England 4th Fighter Group 336 Squadron. During his tour and 2 extensions Joe flew 84 missions with 374 combat hours shooting down 3 1/2 in the air and destroyed 4 more on the ground. He was awarded 2 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 10 Air Medals and a Unit Citation. After the war ended Joe flew P-51s in the Air Force first air demonstration team “The Red Devils” out of Las Vegas. Upon the beginning of the Korean War Joe trained pilots in their US bases and was later relocated to Japan. He also served in the Cold War where he was squadron commander of the 57 FIS in Keflavik Iceland. During the Vietnam war Joe was in the Forward Air Control flying OV 10s and A37s. During Joe’s career he amassed 10,000 hours flying fighter aircraft. Joe retired from the Air Force in 1973 at Bergstrom AFB. After retiring Joe decided to excel in another adventure. He quickly found that playing Handball was his new passion. Joe won 22 national championships and 1 world championship. He took great pride in the sport and made many friends along the way.

Joe is survived by his son Rocky (Kathy) Joiner. Grandsons Cameron and Hudson Joiner, nephew Justin Joiner, siblings Helen Dobbs Gaines, and Linda Woods. Nieces and nephews Jan (Ed) Marsh, Judy (Gary) Gondzur, Joy (Rich) Wood,Danny Dobbs, Robin Myers, and Tammi Holland. And great nephew Chad (Laurie) Dobbs.

A visitation for Joe will be held Saturday 1/20/24 11:00 am at Weed-Corley-Fish funeral home, 5416 Parkcrest Dr Austin, Texas 78731.

Funeral services will occur Saturday 1/20/24 at 12:00 pm at Weed-Corley-Fish.

A committal service will occur Saturday 1/20/24 at 1:00 pm Austin Memorial Park, 2800 Hancock Dr Austin, Texas 78731.