Joseph "Joe" R. Gillette

Joseph (Joe) R. Gillette, age 43, of Lafayette, Colorado, passed away on Monday, January 6, 2025, in Fort Moore, Georgia. Joseph was born on September 17, 1981, in Fort Collins, Colorado, to William R. Gillette and Barbara S. Gillette (Wittler). He married Naomi Whiteford on November 3, 2007.

Joseph graduated from Centaurus High School and went on to earn an Associate of Arts degree from Westwood College. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on April 20, 2005, and dedicated himself to serving his country with honor and distinction. During his military career, Joseph rose to the rank of Master Sergeant and was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Achievement Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, and the Army Superior Unit Award for his exceptional leadership, bravery, and commitment to his duties. He led numerous troops with integrity and was recognized as a great mentor to his fellow soldiers.

In addition to his military accomplishments, Joseph was known for his humility and diverse interests. He enjoyed art, playing guitar, playing video games, watching football, and spending time fishing. His loving, loyal, and protective nature shone through in everything he did. Joe's genuine smile and infectious laughter brought joy to those around him, and he always prioritized the well-being of his family, whom he cherished deeply.

Joseph is survived by his spouse, Naomi Gillette (Whiteford); his children, Jack Whiteford, Keiko Gillette, Aiko Gillette, and Patton Gillette; his parents, William Gillette and Barb Rodman; his step-parents, Steve Johnson and Wendy Morahan; his grandparents, Marvin and Beverly Wittler, and Carol Gillette; his siblings, Erin Tricamo and Heather Newton; his nephews, Deegan Newton, Ian Newton, Iliah Newton, Ri Whiteford, and Sokon Whiteford; his nieces, Ivy Newton, Victoria Tricamo, Isabella Tricamo, and Stevie Tricamo; and his brothers-in-law, Stephen Tricamo and Brian Newton. Joseph was preceded in death by his grandfather, Edward Gillette; his stepfather, Doug Rodman; his father-in-law, John Whiteford; and his mother-in-law, Ikuko Whiteford.

Although Joe will be deeply missed, he will always be in our hearts. In loving memory of a true patriot and our hero.