Joe Frank Bear Jr.

Joe F. Bear, Jr. was born in Montgomery, AL to Joe F. and Margie Morton Bear on February 20,1943. Joe died peacefully on November 11, 2023, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with a sudden illness.

Joe spent the last weeks of his life making the nurses who cared for him laugh, and, at the same time, assuring his visitors that he was just fine, and urging them not to worry about him. His countenance as he faced his illness was the same as it was throughout his life. One filled with sharp wit, concern for others, and a positive attitude.

Joe graduated from Indian Springs School outside of Birmingham in 1961. He followed the educational path of his father and uncles by enrolling at Washington & Lee University in Virginia, graduating in 1965. At W&L he was the President of his fraternity, Phi Delta Theta, and was active in numerous campus activities, including the Student Service Society, dedicated to the service of others.

After graduation, Joe married Mallory Gallion in the summer of 1965 and remained devoted to her throughout his life. After their wedding, Joe embarked on his career as a general contractor, becoming a third-generation member of Bear Brothers, founded by his grandfather. During his professional career he became a member of the State Board of the Alabama General Contractors Association and served as President of the Central District of that Association.

Joe is survived by his adoring wife of 58 years, Mallory, their three children; Joseph F. “Jody” Bear III (Terri), Travis G. Bear (Laura), Mallory “Molly” Drumwright (Kyle), and their grandchildren Oliver Bear, Duncan Bear, Isabel Drumwright, Joe Drumwright and Charlie Drumwright who knew and loved him as “Poppy.” Joe is also survived by his siblings; Mary Todd Norman, Caroline Novak (Tabor), Evelyn Altheimer (Lee), and brother in-law Tommy Gallion (Lannie).

Joe was an active member of the Men of Montgomery and was elected to serve on the Board of Directors of the Montgomery Country Club, acting as the contractor for that organization when its new clubhouse was built.

After Joe retired from Bear Brothers, he and Mallory began to spend their life together both in Montgomery and Florida in the Seagrove Beach area. He and Mallory delighted in hosting their friends, children and grandchildren in Florida. He was always happiest surrounded by his family. He and Mallory enjoyed fishing on Choctawhatchee Bay and spending time with their beloved dog Ziggy.

His ready wit and dry humor entertained his lunch crowd at the Captain’s Table at Montgomery Country Club and at his Florida Saturday Morning Breakfast Club. Joe played poker once a week with his friends where the size of a winning pot was far exceeded by the volume of stories and laughter shared at the table. He followed University of Alabama athletics closely and enjoyed attending the sporting events of his grandchildren. Joe was fun to be around and will be missed by his family and friends. He brought great joy to all around him.

A Celebration of Joe’s life will take place at First United Methodist Church, Montgomery, AL on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at 11:00 am. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers the family would welcome contributions to the Respite Ministry at First United Methodist Church, 2416 W. Cloverdale Park, Montgomery, AL 36106 (www.fumcmontgomery.org/ministry/respite),or to a charity of your choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Leak-MC.com for the Bear family.