My condolences to Joe's family. He was such a delight to be around, he probably was one of the happiest people I knew, always had a smile on his face he lite up the room wherever he went. He will be missed by all who knew him.  May he rest in peace. 
Elaine M. Gonsalves (Laney)

I’m so glad that we made this memory together Bro!
Rest in Peace!

So sorry Joe Cool while you on this earth you was a good man.  Norma and Joe Cool were a very good couple,  
When my mom and my sisters met Joe they love your style and the outfits in your van..  You are going to be so miss.  We will meet Again.

Losing a family member is one of life's most difficult experiences, so losing my Uncle Valley has left me with an intense feeling of sadness.  

Uncle Valley was the perfect example of a father - loving, supportive and dependable, a brother - kind-hearted and protective  and a true friend - loyal and trustworthy. 

We grew up together at the  home of his parents, my grandparents  in Carenage.   As my youngest uncle, he enjoyed the activities we, the young ones in the family enjoyed - sports, listening to music, going to the beach and partying.  He had many friends in the community,  some of whom often frequented our home, so much so that they became his family's friends.

After migrating to the USA, he kept in touch with his family and visited us when he could.  On our visits to the USA, he ensured we were well taken care of and that we had the best time possible.  I remember when my cousin and I first visited him in Rhode Island, he took us sightseeing and shopping but his main desire was for us to meet his friends.

He started partying as a young man and after migrating continued to do so until he fell ill.  I often wondered "Is he ever going to stop partying?" He would most definitely be remembered for his love for and style of dancing.   I assume those who partied with him would have many different adjectives to describe his style of dance.  I, on the other hand, can only say that I am yet to find an appropriate word for his dance moves. 

He was devoted to his family and his love for us was unconditional.  He valued his friends both in Trinidad and abroad  and to him, Sandra, his better half was his soulmate.

Uncle Valley, you fought courageously but lost the battle.  Know that we love you dearly and you will forever be in our hearts.  I'll always remember our happy times together and our interesting conversations.  The day that Heaven called, you were relieved from all suffering.  REST IN PEACE UNCLE.

To My Love Joseph James (Joe Kool),
In the end, What Matters is the lives you touched unconditionally; the fond memories; the value you brought to lives of many - through your faithfulness, your caring spirit and your loving care. I experienced all of the above and so much more. I Love you; I Miss you!!!!!!!!  I will carry you in Spirit, Each Day of My Life.
Curling up next to your voice and sinking into your smile and running away with you and loving your shadowy places meant the world to me. I knew what made you feel Alive – 
Your Zest for Life and your Unconditional Love was demonstrated Every Day!   I remember you often telling me “Today is Beautiful Just Like You” – What a Way to Start the Day – Fantastic !!.  Your concern for me was not only Heartwarming but at times overwhelming – you were only seeking the Best for Me which Increased my Love for you. I am very Happy and Satisfied that God sent me someone who was Genuine and was Not Afraid to TELL IT LIKE IT IS – You were True to Yourself – Understood Yourself and Helped Others understand You!    “Ready or Not” you were on the Move – Loved your Energy!!  Let’s Not Forget Our Corona Parties – What a Blast!!

To the Family – Thank you for your Loving Kindness, Support, Encouragement and Empathy at this Most Difficult Time for All of Us !!

My Deepest Sympathy to Those Near and Far.

With Lots of Love Joe – May Your Spirit Live Forever

In loving memory of Uncle Valley…gone but will not be forgotten.

I hold so many cherished memories of you, from the early days in Carenage at the house in the settlement, to the time you were taken from us so unexpectedly.
I cannot forget… when you left Trinidad in 1975. No longer having you around was like the closing of a chapter in our lives… the hand written letters that were the only means of communication at the time…  the eagerness to know what was happening with you.
I cannot forget… the first time you came back ‘home’ in 1989.
I cannot forget… when you came home thirty-four years ago to walk me down the aisle.
I cannot forget… the parties on the night before your return to Rhode Island.  Your dancing was super energetic, wild and hilarious.  We had so much fun with you… you believed you were the ‘best’ dancer… and we always wondered from where you got those crazy dance moves.  You were always the life of the party.
I cannot forget… our late-night marathon conversations.  One topic led to another and I thought you would never stop talking.
I cannot forget… our visits to the US. We visited you in RI and you were always eager to drive us around showing us places of interest.
I cannot forget… each time, on the day before our return trip to Trinidad, you came to NY to help us pack.  You ensured that nothing was left back and no suitcase was overweight.
I cannot forget… the last time we visited you.  You looked at us… your eyes followed us… you squeezed our hands… at times you smiled… we knew you wanted to communicate but no words came.  We prayed for you with faith and hoped for the best.   
God must have a reason for keeping you for 465 days without letting you come back to us even for a short period of time.  He took you home peacefully on Friday 31 October, 2025.  Your body is now free from pain and your heart and mind are free from worry. 
May your soul rest in perfect peace as you transfer into the great beyond.  
RIP dear Uncle.  Gone but not forgotten.

In May of 1986, after returning to Rhode Island from California, I was the opening DJ at a nightclub called Tillie Kings. My friend Kevin and I would show up early, and I would go in hard on my opening set. We would notice this man that would show up early, and get on the dance floor by himself, dancing away and then screaming over to me in the DJ booth, "you're bad man, you're the baddest dj!!" We would look at each other, and wonder who the hell this man was! My self-confidence was a little weary back then. So in the beginning, I found it odd that somebody liked my work that much. As time went on, he and I became friends. Then I introduced him to the rest of our little group. Which consisted of about four of us guys. Like a little clique. Then through several visits to my house and a couple of family parties, I started to introduce him to members of my family. Basically, "I" am the reason that any member of my family know who this man is. However, this is not about taking credit. This is a testament as to how long this man has been a part of my life. He and I are so close, this man had absolutely no problem driving from Rhode Island to Connecticut to visit me and see my place. He and I would sit and privately talk about people who had problems driving long distances. He used to tell me that people (not saying who) had a habit of using the phrase "all the way to" when it came to driving somewhere. We would laugh about stuff like that, and other things he shared with me while I sat on his balcony, smoking during the pandemic. We even talked about me one day visiting his country of Trinidad. Joe, I'm going to miss you dearly my friend, rest peacefully.

In Loving Memory of Uncle Valley

Uncle Valley really loved his family. He absolutely adored his nieces — not that he didn’t love his nephews too — but there was just something special in the way he connected with us all. Even though he lived abroad for so many years, he always made the effort to stay in touch. From the time I was a child, he never failed to check in, to call, to remind us that distance didn’t change a thing.

He loved his sisters deeply. They meant the world to him. Whenever he came home, he made it his mission to see as much of the family as possible. He’d organize get-togethers just so everyone could come together, sing, dance, and have a great time. That was Uncle Valley — bringing joy wherever he went.

Even if you didn’t call him as often as you should have, he’d be the one to call first. And he’d never make you feel bad about it. He’d just be happy to hear your voice, to catch up, to laugh. And without fail, he’d ask for the latest calypso or soca — whether it was on cassette, DVD, or whatever format was popular at the time. Music was his thing, and he loved it almost as much as he loved us.

These are the memories I’ll hold onto — the sound of his voice, his laughter, his warmth, and the way he made everyone feel special.

These are the memories I will always hold close — the laughter, the love, and the warmth of his presence.
Uncle Valley, will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

My friend Joe Cool you will be missed from our NYC TRIPS to you coming and Celebrating my BDAY with me . You loved dancing . You will always call or text me to check in . Rest in peace my brother till we meet again

In Loving Memory of Uncle Valley

By his nephew, Kareem

Uncle Valley was the epitome of what loving family means. Always ready to help, always full of wisdom and stories from his many trades and life experiences. He had a special way of turning everyday moments into lessons worth remembering.

I recall when I wanted to buy a leather briefcase, and Uncle Valley told me exactly where to go in Manhattan. “Ask the price,” he said, “then walk away. Don’t take the first offer.” I followed his advice, and sure enough, the salesman came running after me with a better deal. I ended up getting two bags for half the price! When I told Uncle Valley, he just smiled. That was him—teaching through experience and laughter.

He was a man who gave freely of himself. His home was always open, his voice always welcoming, his heart always generous. I’ll never forget surprising him in Rhode Island with Logan. His joy was contagious—he proudly told everyone that his nephews had surprised him. We spent that visit laughing, talking, and creating memories I’ll treasure forever.

We will miss his warmth, his humor, and his love for family. Though we’re saddened by his passing, we find comfort in the promise at John 5:28–29, where Jesus assures us that “all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out" and live again right here on a paradise earth.

Until that day, we hold on to his example of kindness, strength, and love. We’ll remember his stories, his laughter, and his heart. Rest assured that Grand Day is soon, just as Jehovah promised.

Some of my fondest memories are from the times I spent in New York with Uncle Valley. He was always there to take me around, to make sure I had a good time. We had such special moments together at the annual Carenage Family Day in NYC and on those unforgettable boat ride parties.

I can still picture being at his home, helping to make sorrel as we prepared for Family Day — he took so much pride in it. Those moments were highlights for him, times he truly enjoyed.

And I’ll never forget how he would show us how easy it was to pack a barrel to send back home to Trinidad. I used to think I’d need ten barrels, but somehow, he’d fit everything neatly into one! That was his magic touch — patient, clever, and always willing to help family.

He would even leave his home in Rhode Island and travel to New York just to help me pack that barrel. That meant so much to me — it showed the kind of person he was, always giving of his time and love without hesitation.

I will truly miss those wonderful times we shared, and I’ll always hold those memories close to my heart.

So sorry to hear of Joe’s passing 😢 I remember him well back in the day as “Joe Cool” his passion for music was always infectious..Rest In Eternal Glory 🫶🏾💐🙏🏾🙏🏾 Sending Prayers for Strength and Comfort to His Loved Ones 🫶🏾🙏🏾

To  Joe’s Family
We are so sorry for your loss.
The Felix Family wish you comfort and peace in the months ahead.
Joe will always be remembered as our very own “Steve Harvey” of the 80’s and beyond.  He took pride in his attire, and wore fashionably suits.
At family and friends gathering, Joe would break out in a “Split” by the sound of James Brown music, sliding all over the floor, laughing loudly, while in his glory.
He kept Juggie and Blakie aka Neil,  with Brooklyn and Carenage current events and updates.
He will always be remembered for his “loyal” Carenage Roots.
They both visited Joe Faithfully, until he went home to be with the Lord. His memories will live on.
Gone but not forgotten.
Your friends: Juggie, Blakie aka Neil, Cheryl, Lynton and Dwayne.
You will be missed. Much Love!

Crabby/Valley...Boi I will miss seeing you when Carenage Day comes around in July As that's the only time I usually see you. ..My sincere and heartfelt condolences goes out your entire families. May you SIPP🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

Its with much sadness that I write these words in honour of my dear uncle Joseph James 'Valley'. During his illness I prayed so much for his healing but the good Lord had other plans.  I will miss him dearly.  I will miss our chats about the Carenage community during the 'long time' days and our indepth history discussions.  He was very knowledgeable.  His phone calls were very regular, not allowing any lengthy amount of time between calls.  He always wanted to know how everyone was doing.  Yes, he was very family oriented.  Having a good time was his thing, always ready to get on the dance floor.  My uncle loved everyone and he was loved.  I thank God for all the years he was with us.  Again REST IN SWEET AND ETERNAL PEACE my dear uncle, you will always be remembered.

Ava C. James 
(Niece)

Uncle Valley (Joe Cool), now that you're gone, the quiet feels strange. You were not just an uncle to me. You were a father. Your love for your family, friends  and the strong bond we shared will be remembered. I recalled our calls to check up on each other- we laughed and sometimes argued. You never forget to mention Sandra and how much you loved her, referring to her as "Sandra, my woman".  I know she will really miss you. You enjoyed music, travelling and dancing and yes, how you did dance at the parties you attended. To others, you were the life of the party but to you, you were the best dancer on the floor. You loved life and you lived the life. You often reminded me of how thankful we should be to see another day. I say goodbye with a heavy heart and thanked God for the years we shared. You will live in my heart forever.

Rest in peace dear uncle. I will sorely miss you. " to be absent from the body, is to be present with the Lord".

I am going to miss all the text  he use to send me he was the best brother in law any one could have his niece Sean daughter send her condolences.

My condolences to Joe's family and friends.  Always smiling,always dancing.

We want to extend our deepest condolences for the loss of your loved one. We hope you find solace knowing what a wonderful human being he was—the Denoon Family.

Joe was a neighbor of mine for 17yrs and he will be deeply missed.  He was a wonderful man, always so caring, kind and compassionate. Always willing to help you no matter what.  I know that he is now at Peace with the Lord🙏
I would like to extend my most sincere condolences to all of Joe's family and to Norma, who is also a neighbor of mine, at this most difficult time.  
May Joe RIP 🙏

Hey Joe
My fondest memory was when we traveled to Trinidad, where I was blessed to me your father & many of your family.  You have a very loving family.  I also enjoyed how in sinc we always were on the dance floor when we went out dancing.  You were the love of my life when we were together & you have been a good friend since.  You are now at peace, I know where you are & I'm  sure I will see you again.  You will be missed.

My Condolences to Joe Family and Friends. He was a good friend of mine whenever I was in Rhode Island we had breakfast, lunch or dinner. I'm forever grateful for our friendship . Rest Easy my Friend 🧡

Joe im sure going to missyour infectious laugh you're always positive attitude no matter what was happening im blessed to have been a lucky man to have you as a friend and been able to talk daily for many years good and bad I know you're with the lord and family now and im going to miss you for the rest of my life God rest you're soul and God bless your family and they know how much you were loved by me and everyone's life you touched going to miss you  dearly love you and miss you my friend 🧡

Uncle Joe,
I was glad I got to see you before and thank you for always being there for me and my family. When I played soccer for Classical at Gano Street I would turn around when I heard “Down de Road” and it was you just randomly being there cause I said I had a game. You were right there to help drive us down to Atlanta with no hesitation when I left for school and the pride you had for all my success was and still is very much appreciated ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I Love you and will miss you…The pain is over and now you can dance til your heats desire.
-Lynton-

We will miss you uncle valley you were always there for me and my mom. Rest in peace.  God took you away for a reason no more pain. Love ❤️ Kizzy

Now we all know valley to be the greatest dancer and best dressed at all parties.  He never disappointed any one if you were around you had to get up and dance with him he was always the big man at the party!  You will be missed my heart is breaking but you are no longer in pain.  Love you 😢

Valley was the best real cousin I ever had. He was always there for me come thick or tin.  He was always there for me in every way that matters. Whenever I called him he would drop everything and came right over he loved my daughter Kizzy as if she was his own. You will surely be missed Cuz  REST IN HEAVEN

LOST ONE OF MY VERY BEST FRIENDS, WE HAD LOTS OF FUN TIME, WE PLAYED , WIND BALL CRICKET , FOOTBALL, WE HAD  LOTS OF FUN TIME IN CARENAGE, SINCE IN THE EARLY 70'S, THE FATIGUES,  THE  JOKES, LAUGHTER WAS THE BEST THING WE HAD, REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND, TO MUCH TO MENTION
CRABBY , OUR CARENAGE NAME FOR YOU
MAY YOU REST IN ETERNAL PEACE 
HARRY AND NORMA , WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THE GOOD TIMES

To my dear friend Valley you will be missed dearly I just want to remember your happy times. The Portuguese bread  that you brought to me and the tasty sorrel you made. It was always Bento for you Rest easy my friend🎶🥲🙏

OBITUARY

Joseph James

September 17, 1950 – October 31, 2025

Russell J Boyle and Son Funeral Homes

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