Joe French

COOKEVILLE-Joseph Clifford French, Jr., passed away peacefully at his residence in Cookeville, TN, on May 12, 2024. Born in Cumberland County, TN, on February 26, 1948, Joe's life was marked by a steadfast commitment to his family, work, and community.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Clifford French, Sr. and Lillie Bernice Whittaker French, and his wife of 44 years, Susie Ann Turner French. His legacy of love and dedication lives on through his wife of 11 years, Barbara Mae Wright French; his son, Joe French III (Joy); his daughters, Vicki Lynn McBroom (Tommy), Kimberly Sue French-Morris (Earl), and Christy Napier (Mathew), all of Cookeville; his cherished grandchildren, Amber Mansell, Heather McBroom, Matthew McBroom, Jonathan Clark, Ashley Stults, Joe French IV, and Ella Mae Napier; and his adored great-grandchildren, Izaiah, Kristopher, Brailey, Johnny, Thomas, Christopher, and Kimmie. Joe is also survived by his sister, Sheila French, and his brother, Baxter (Barbara) French, from Jamestown, TN.

Joe's professional life was as varied as it was impactful. He proudly served as a manager at French's Shoes and Boots, a family business that benefited from his leadership and personal touch. His calling to serve others led him to a career as a correction officer with the Putnam County Sheriff's Department, where he worked for 13 years, and his commitment to public safety included work as a Putnam County Reserve Officer for 10 years. Joe's dedication to his community was further exemplified by his role as a Putnam County volunteer firefighter, where he selflessly put the safety of others before his own.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Joe was an active member of the Stevens Street Baptist Church, which was a testament to his strong faith in Jesus Christ. He was an active volunteer at the Care Center ministry at the church. He brought his spirit of service to the Cookeville Masonic Lodge #266, where his fraternal bonds were strengthened through shared values and community work. His work with the Standing Stone Utility District, Joe was instrumental in bringing water to Sand Springs and Rocky Point, improving the quality of life for his neighbors and the generations to come.

Joe's interests reflected his character as a man of deep faith and boundless friendliness. He never met a stranger and loved everyone he encountered. Known for always wearing a smile, Joe approached life with an active and servant-minded attitude. His loving nature, kindness, and friendly demeanor were the hallmarks of his personality that endeared him to all who knew him.

As we say goodbye to Joe, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and love. His memory will be cherished and his contributions to his family and community will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him. Joe's life story is one of devotion, service, and the joy of connecting with others, a narrative that will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 16, 2024 at 11:00 am in the Cookeville chapel of Hooper, Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home. Pastor Scott Parkison will officiate. Interment will follow in Cookeville City Cemetery.

His family will receive friends Wednesday from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm and again Thursday from 9:00 am until service time at the funeral home.  A masonic service will also be held Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Pastors of Stevens Street Baptist Church will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be volunteers who have served at the Care Center at Stevens Street, along with Joe's grandsons and son in law, Mathew.

Memorial contributions are suggested to be made to The Care Center, Stevens Street Baptist Church, 327 W. Stevens St, Cookeville, TN 38501.

Hooper, Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.