Joseph Edward Truitt Jr.

Dear Lori and family I just want to express my deepest condolence's at Joe's passing The world is a lesser place without him He was an integral part of my world view He was the model for mentors I remember a couple of years ago He and I spoke about many things but the best part of the conversation was talking about Ivan Illich and its teaching I remember Joe being shocked that I ultimately became a physician The humanities aren't taught enough in medicine so I''m glad I was given the gift of...

Dear Mr. Truitt
I had you for English honors in my senior year. I had heard my predecessors speak of you with great seriousness, so I apparently had cause to be worried.

And indeed, you were a giant and powerful presence in the room. I had only the deepest respect for you, tinged with more than a little fear. I feared disappointing you with a wrong answer, and felt always relieved when my answer did not displease you. Your questions were always hard, and required much more than...

There are people who may never know how much they have influenced a person's life. Words cannot express how much Joe Truitt helped to shape the way I observe people and the world. I was blessed to have him for an English teacher for 2 years (and Lori for a year). Thank you.

I only knew you for a few years through your film groups, and as my husband's teacher at West. I enjoyed talking with you about movies, books, etc. You always had a smile, and an easy going way about you, and we always shared some laughs. I am glad I met you and Mrs. Truitt. You will be missed!

P.S. I hope you get to see Charlie Chaplin too!

Sharon Nigro

Joe taught me in Honors English at Cherry Hill West, many years ago, where I also took his Film Appreciation class several times. Those experiences molded me as a younger person, and have stayed with me.

In fact, some days ago, I was re-watching Orson Welles' "The Stranger," one of the many films Joe introduced me to when I was a student. I'm certain I would not have become even the modest film buff I am, had I not met him. And I wonder now how different (and bereft) my life might have...

I saw it online and it couldnt believe it. He was such a good person who genuinely cared and always showed confidence in his students. I also had Mrs. Truitt For my English class. She has the patience and taught me so much. So many times I went online and tried to find a way to get touch with them. I just wanted to thank both of them. Sad and keeping Mr and Mrs truitt in my prayers.

Our sincere sorrow for you all, Lorie, Joe and Greg. May you find comfort in knowing the numbers of students and friends he influenced in his life. Mr. Truitt inspired my son, Jeff, in his relationship with your son, Greg. It has been a lasting friendship since their school days.

I will really miss spending time with you and talking about the high priced Phillies. Boy we sure do miss them now. You can never be replaced. I will always remember how smart and funny you are. Life will never be the same without you in it. We miss you Joe. You are one of the nicest people that I ever meet. The world needs more people like Joe. Love, Betsy & Ed Mauger