Burton, Michigan
MURDAUGH, JOEL Of Burton, age 60, passed away on Thursday, September 17, 2015 at Henry Ford Hospital after a prolonged illness. Funeral service will be held at 12 NOON Monday, September 21, 2015 at the Swartz Funeral Home, 1225 West Hill Road, Pastor James Gosnell officiating. Burial in Evergreen Cemetery. A gathering of family and friends will be held 12-8 p.m. Sunday and 11 a.m. Monday until the time of the service at the funeral home. Joel was born in Flint, Michigan on February 14, 1955, the son of the late Harold "Cotton" and Florence (Hannaford) Murdaugh. He married the love of his life, Linda L. Exum, on January 3, 1980 in Davison, MI. Joel worked at Grand Trunk Railroad for 14 years before becoming a remodeling contractor and running his own business for many years. Continuing his passion to help others achieve their dreams, he was also a dedicated realtor with ReMax Select for 14 years where he worked with many dear friends and was an active member of the Rotary Club. Being a talented carpenter and mechanic, he was willing to help anyone with anything. With his unique sense of humor and kind and gentle spirit, Joel humbly offered encouraging support to all who were blessed to know him. As an avid fisherman, he felt closest to God on a lake and connecting with nature. He was a loving husband, father of two sons and two grandsons. Joel is survived by his loving wife, Linda; children, Nathan and Andrew; grandsons, Jacob and Logan; sisters, Barbara Smith and Tyna Rosewood; special aunt, Delphine Lang, who was like a mother to him; father and mother-in-law, Earl and Betty Exum; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mark, Jessieca (Bob), Tim, Angela (Matthew); many special nieces, nephews and dear friends. Your condolences may be shared with the family at www.swartzfuneralhomeinc.com
Dear Linda,
Remembering Joel as the anniversary of his passing approaches. Tom misses his fishing buddy a lot. And we both miss his laughter and great sense of humor. But I'm sure not nearly as much as you do. You are in our thoughts.
Pat Swallows
September 11, 2019 | Otisville, MI | Friend
Joel,a great guy, my condolences to Linda and his family,my daughter passed away 6 yrs ago the sadness you feel I know so well.He was a good friend and co-worker. He changed my life 38 yrs ago,l was repairing a wrecked car of his,he told me the railroad was hiring welders that career fit me well.seen him often every workday for about 10 yrs but he was on to bigger and better things. Sorry we lost contact over the years. Thanks Joel for all the fun times ànd believing in me.
Dan Terryah
September 24, 2015 | Goodrich, MI
So sorry for your loss. Please accept our deepest sympathy.
Mike & Sue Kalinka
September 22, 2015 | Ixonia, WI
Joel was a good man. Bought and sold a few houses with him and he was also my neighbor for 8 years. I knew him for about 15 years. He was a knowledgable and super cool guy. So sad to hear about all this. God speed brother.
Ansen
September 22, 2015 | Traverse City, MI
Linda so sorry to hear of Joel passing away. Know that you are in my prayers. It is difficult & we ask why but God takes only the best.He now walks the streets of gold. He was welcomed into heaven & got to hear those words Well Done My Faithful Servant.
Bonnie Thurlow
September 21, 2015 | Davison, MI
We are all going to miss this wonderful man that I dearly love
Bless you cousin
Bless your family --especially your grandsons who are gonna miss you so much
Kathi Mazzanti
September 21, 2015 | Jackson, MO
I am so sorry to hear about Joel. I worked with him at Grand Trunk. So sorry for your loss.
September 21, 2015
Dear Linda,
So saddened by this news! My heart and prayers are with you and your family...you and Joel lit up many a day in my younger days, I'll never forget Joel's sweet smile,
God Bless,
Amanda (Terryah) Fitzpatrick
Amanda Fitzpatrick
September 20, 2015 | Livonia, MI
I am shocked and saddened by the news of Joel passing. i considered him a good friend although we didn't see each other often. i always felt better after being around Joel. he was a great guy and always a good laugh. Thoughts and prayers to his wife Linda and his kids and grandkids. he will be missed!
Harold & Kim Adams
September 20, 2015 | Burton, MI
