Joseph Thomas Cardwell, affectionately known as “Joe”, age 77, went to be with his heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, on Saturday morning, August 10, 2019, at his home with the love of his life, Joan Strickland Woods, by his side, and family close by.
Joe was born in Nashville on Jan 12, 1942 and moved to Birmingham at a young age. He lived, loved, worked and served his Lord until his death. Joe was loved, honored, & respected by all who knew him. His radiant smile illuminated every room.
Joe grew up in Norwood and attended Phillips High School where he played football. He graduated from the University of Alabama in 1965 with a Bachelor’s degree in business & a Master’s degree in marketing. Joe was a member of Phi Kappa Phi, and, along with his wife Joan, was an avid Alabama football fan.
Joe retired from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama in 2008, but his most fulfilling job was during the 12 years he spent working for Children’s Hospital of Birmingham.
Joe was a member of Lakeside Baptist Church where he served as a greeter and an usher. He was previously a member of Valleydale Baptist church where he taught adult Sunday school for many years.
Joe was predeceased by his father Thomas Clayton Cardwell and mother Nelle Gattis Cardwell. He is survived by his wife, Joan Strickland Woods, of 33 1⁄2 years; son Philip Cardwell (Sonia); Daughter Joanna Cardwell Martin (Charlie); stepsons Jim Woods (Connie) & Jody Woods; grandson Carlos “CJ” Martin; granddaughter Kristen Woods, step-granddaughter Katelyn Williams; grandsons Nathaniel Woods; great-grandchildren Landon & Amara Woods.
Joe loved his family and Lord with all his life.
The family wishes to thank all the nurses of hospice & the caretakers from Home Instead who ministered to Joe with a special spirit of love, especially Jasmine, Priscilla, & Loretta.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, August 13, 2019, at Lakeside Baptist Church. Visitation from 12:30-2:00pm. Funeral services at 2:00pm with burial to follow at Elmwood Cemetery. Dr Greg Corbin & Dr Richard Trader officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Joe’s honor to Alzheimers of Central Alabama, 300 Office Park Dr Ste 225, Birmingham, AL 35223 https://alzca.org/ , or Lakeside Baptist Church, 2865 Old Rocky Ridge Rd, Birmingham, AL 35243.
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