Joseph Alan Okey, Jr. CHARLOTTE - Joe Okey passed away at home in Charlotte on August 31, 2018, with his loving wife Diane by his side. He was born January 15, 1943, in Graham, NC to the late Edna and Joseph Okey, Sr. After attending NC State University, Joe settled down in Charlotte in 1969. He enjoyed a successful career in textiles, and in his travels, he made countless friends throughout this region and overseas. He never met a stranger and seemed to know someone everywhere he went. He served as chairman of the American Textile Machinery Association, was a board member of Carolina's Textile Club, and served as president of Myers Park Country Club. He was an avid member of the Wolfpack Club, attending every football game he could. Joe treasured his annual trips to Aruba with his wife Diane. He is survived by his wife, Diane Okey, his three children, Marianne Wynne (Doug), David Okey (Elizabeth), and Paul Okey; his stepdaughters Jessica Graham (Ben), Melissa Schwab (Dustin) and six grandchildren (Charlotte and Wade Okey, Noah and Avery Graham, Austin and Reece Schwab), as well as his sisters Josephine Phillips and Eugenia Okey. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Lucille Tutterow. The family would like to thank Dr Reza Nazemzadeh and his staff for their care and support throughout Joe's courageous and hard fought battle with pancreatic cancer. All are welcome to join the service to celebrate Joe's life on Saturday, September 15th, at 2 pm, at Central Church, 5301 Sardis Road in Charlotte. A reception will immediately follow the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to www.pancan.org in Joe's memory.

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Published by Charlotte Observer on Sep. 8, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Okey

12 Entries

Ed Land

October 3, 2018

Diane and family,

I was saddened to learn about Joe's passing. He was a good person and I enjoyed seeing him in our travels in the textile industry and the related meetings and conventions. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Jack Matthews

September 15, 2018

My condolences to Marianne, David, Paul, and Diane. Joe was a great friend. Though we lost touch over the last few years, I always enjoyed playing golf and telling stories in the "dungeon" at MPCC with Joe. I'm proud that I was one of his many "bubbas".

Alan Salk

September 13, 2018

Diane , You and Joe both touched my Heart down in Aruba ! I will Treasure those Memories we had in the Sun and Sand !!! I will give a toast to Joe ..... with a Smile .... and a Margarita !!! My best to You and Family ..... with a long distance HUG from N.J.

September 13, 2018

Betty and I wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire family. Joe was a true and cherished friend for almost 50 years. Tailgating with our fellow Wolfpackers, trips taken together and the good times shared will always be remembered. Joe, thank you for brightening the days of so many of us with that smile and fun loving attitude. You will never be forgotten.
Ed Edwards

Dave Farr

September 11, 2018

Always enjoyed playing golf with Joe. He was sneaky good!!! Great pardner. Loved helping David and Paul with their golf games. Super young men!! Thinking about you guys in this time of great loss!!!!, dave Farr aka snake

WILSON KING

September 10, 2018

A GOOD FRIEND WHEN WE WERE KIDS!

Devin Steele

September 9, 2018

Joe will be deeply missed by those of us in the textile industry. Please read my blog about this fine gentleman here: http://www.etextilecommunications.com/blog2-c30w.

Ann Seagrave

September 9, 2018

Diane I am so deeply saddened to hear you lost
Joe. Always loved seeing you guys at Rountree.
Joe and I talking NCState football while you were
picking your favorite flowers. My prayers are with you and the family.

Rick

September 8, 2018

A scholar, a gentleman and connoisseur of fine golf.

September 8, 2018

Marianne, David, Paul, Many memories of your family from the time you all were born, Hugs and comfort to all of you. Bob and Janey Buttermore

Carroll Thomas

September 8, 2018

Joe Okey, Was my My #-1 Best Friend. We met approx. 50 years ago. Worked together in the Textile Ind, for approx 40 years.I will miss him. My Deepest sympathy, condolences with LOVE to his wife, family and many Loving Friends.

Anne Grant

September 8, 2018

Although it's been at least 35 years since I last knew Joe well, I have thought of him often because I've never known a kinder or more genuine person. A good man, through and through.

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