battle with heart disease.
Joe was born on December 22, 1942 in Winston Salem, NC to Joseph Henry and Ellaree Bullock. He
graduated from Pahokee High School in 1962. He leaves behind his wife of 30 years, Diana, sister Joree
Strickland, two daughters Starla McGorty (Tom) and Dana Smith (Wes), three grandchildren (Bradley,
Jarrod and Jacob), and two great grandchildren (Allie and Nolan) and nieces and nephews. He was loved
by close extended family, Harry and Penny Jones, Kevin Jones, and Johna Rudolph. He was Uncle Joe to
Justin, Jennifer, Haley and Ethan. Missy was his loving furbaby who never left his side. He also leaves
behind many friends and other family members who will miss his smile.
He served for 8 years in the Army National Guard and was an E5 at the time of his honorable discharge.
Joe’s career at Southern Bell began shortly after graduation from high school and he retired in 1991, but
continued to work as a contractor until 2001. He was a hard working man who had high standards for
himself and others, and was always willing to extend a hand to anyone who needed help with a project
as everyone knew he was someone you could count on. His phone friends became lifelong friends and
he kept in touch with them regularly.
Joe enjoyed football, particularly the Miami Dolphins and watching college ball. He knew every team
and player statistic that you ever wanted to know. Friends and family can attest to his love for grilling
and cooking, hosting a great party and getting together with friends, enjoying a glass of Crown on the
rocks or a nice cold beer.
In 2016, Joe became the first patient at JFK Hospital to receive an LVAD heart pump. The last three
years with him have been a gift and he was able to be an ambassador for the program and he helped
others who would also become LVAD warriors. Keep his memory alive in your hearts, for he would want
us to remember him by celebrating his life.
FAMILY
Diana BullockWife
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