Jozef Verhelst

December 1945 – October 30, 2026

Jozef Verhelst, lovingly known as Jef (with one F), passed away on October 30, 2026, following a courageous yearlong battle with cancer.

Born in Kruibeke, Belgium, Jef came from humble beginnings and went on to build an extraordinary life through hard work, determination, and an unwavering love of family. After immigrating to the United States in 1980, he founded Southland Painting, building a successful business and earning the respect and friendship of countless people throughout his career.

Jef was truly larger than life. He never met a stranger, loved a good conversation, and had an incredible ability to bring people together. Whether golfing, riding his Harley, traveling the world with his beloved bride, Nancy, or spending time with family and friends, Jef embraced life with enthusiasm, humor, and a spirit of adventure.

Above all, Jef treasured being a husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Nancy; his daughters, Erin (husband Stephen) and Dana (wife Sara); and his cherished grandchildren, Mackenzie, Shelby, Blake, and Owen.

He leaves behind a lifetime of treasured memories, enduring friendships, and a legacy of love that will continue through the many lives he touched.

A Celebration of Jef’s Life

Family and friends are invited to join us on Monday, November 30, 2026, from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m., at the Dignity Memorial Life Celebration Center, located at 7134 Powell Rd, Wildwood, FL 34785

This gathering will be a celebration of a life extraordinarily well lived, and we want it to reflect the man Jef was.

We kindly ask that guests not wear black. Jef loved bright colors, laughter, and being surrounded by people enjoying life. We encourage everyone to wear something bright and colorful as we come together to celebrate him.

We warmly welcome anyone who would like to share a few words, a favorite story, or a special memory of Jef. He touched so many lives, and we would love to hear the stories, laughter, and memories that made him so unforgettable.

Come ready to celebrate, reminisce, laugh, and remember a remarkable man who was loved by so many.