Josiah James Koppenhaver

Josiah James Koppenhaver, movie lover, thrift-shopper, and artist, died unexpectedly on October 13, 2022. He died at the age of thirty-nine in Lebanon, Pennsylvania—a city he adored and called his muse.

Joey enjoyed art in all its forms. An old soul, he loved music ranging from the folksy, melodic tunes of the 1960s to the lyrical rhythms of 1990s rap. As a child he would belt “Jeremiah was a bullfrog” in the car with his mom, Deborah Brownsberger. Joey was also a great lover of film; The “Star Wars” franchise was a particular favorite. He was a vessel of movie knowledge; the names of directors and film titles easily tripped off his tongue.

It was natural that Joey found a home among members of the local art scene. He often recited poetry at open mic nights, sometimes drawing from original works or from authors such as Allen Ginsberg. At the 7th annual Spinstock Flow Arts Festival, he wrote custom poetry “on demand” for event attendees. Joey, likewise, enjoyed drawing and painting visual art he displayed at community art shows. He even took a stab at amateur photography, using his little sister, Amanda Brownsberger, as his muse, a venture for which she is glad there is no surviving evidence.

Joey will be most remembered for his giving nature, infectious laugh, and iridescent smile. Whenever he poured through the bins at thrift shops, he put aside movies, vintage albums, and toys to gift to his loved ones. He had boundless love and affection for Oscar, a horrible, shivering chihuahua no one else could tolerate. And when his childhood family practically doubled overnight (with the addition of a stepfather and three new siblings), he embraced each without hesitation.

Joey is survived by his father, Bruce Koppenhaver, his mother, Deborah Brownsberger, and stepfather, Brian Brownsberger. He also leaves behind his grandmother, Ruby Leininger, two sisters, Danielle Chilcote and Amanda Brownsberger, as well as two brothers, Chad Hoyer and Eric Brownsberger.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Joey’s life and art at Rohland Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 18th at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations toward funeral expenses are appreciated (Venmo: @Deborah-Brownsberger).