Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Peninsula Funeral Home & Crematory

11144 Warwick Boulevard

Newport News, Virginia

Joseph Killen Obituary

NEWPORT NEWS - Joseph Roy Killen, 72, of Newport News, VA, went to be with the Lord on Monday, January 13. Joe was born in Pulaski, Virginia and grew up in Indian Head, Maryland. He was a Peninsula resident for over 40 years. He attended Charles County Community College in Maryland and Mars Hill College in North Carolina. He was a long-time member of Menchville Baptist Church where he was a dedicated part of the choir, performing solos on several occasions. During the recent renovations of the church's sanctuary, Joe, along with other members of the church, worked tirelessly to see it to fruition. Joe was very proud of his newly discovered Cherokee lineage and he was a member of the United Native Missionaries. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe W. and Gail B. Killen, and sister Norma Jean Scott. Left to cherish his memory are his brothers William Killen (Carole), of Church Hill, TN, Robert Killen (Tina), of Williamsburg, Samuel Killen of Richmond; his sisters Patricia Ezzell (Ben), of Gloucester Point, Betty Murphy (John), of La Plata, Maryland, Brenda Vaccarelli (Mike), of Hampton, and Mary Diggs (James), of Poquoson, a special nephew, Benton Hunt, and his dear friend, Carol Masser. Joe loved to sing and shared his beautiful voice with others. His favorite pastimes include researching family genealogy, historical research of Charles County, Maryland, reading a vast appreciation of art and music. Joe truly lived his Christian faith by helping those less fortunate. He was often known to distribute food, clothing and blankets to people in need. A memorial service will be held at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd. Newport News, on Saturday January 18th at 1 pm. The family will receive friends at Menchville Baptist Church, 248 Menchville Road, Newport News, following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Menchville House, 13658 Warwick Blvd., Newport News.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Daily Press on Jan. 17, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Killen

Not sure what to say?





Karen Killen Alexander

Yesterday

Uncle Joe was a hoot back n the 70's. One Christmas he gave my siblngs cousin and I a christmas gift early before Thanksgiving and wrapped them and put them under the Tree. Shaking and guessing them till we could open them we were wrong about the contents. Disappointed we were upon opening them to find they were all bibles. Much to my happiness when I was older I picked my Green Apple Bible and began to read it and know more about the value of it. I have always appreciated my Uncle Joe because of his gift that Christmas I came to know the Lord Jesus more and contrary to what some believe WELL. Miss you Uncle Joe but not those Peanut Butter , onion and Yellow Mustard Sandwiches.

Kimberly Exum-jones

August 15, 2023

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Memories of Joe

April 15, 2014

David Lawrence

March 8, 2014

I talked to Mr. Killen on occasion while walking my dogs, he was interested that I was a descendent of the Randolphs of Virginia and Pocahontas. He always waved and said hello! God bless the family left behind.

Lynn Coates

January 26, 2014

Joe was a very special person. He was a regular patron at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Family History Center on Denbigh Blvd. If we were short staffed he would stay with the ladies until closing and make sure we got to our cars safely. I knew Joe For over 10 years. When Joe got on a topic he would search and also talk your ear off when he found some history even if it did not relate directly to his family. I know that he will be missed but he is in a better place now. The staff at the History Center will miss you. My prayers go out to His family and Friends. God Bless Joe

Josh Tschirhart

January 19, 2014

We didn't know you well, Joe, but you were always a friendly face at Menchville Baptist. I very much enjoyed your presence in the choir and was always glad to be able to shake your hand. I was sad to hear of your passing this morning. You will surely be missed.

Leigh Ann Workman (Hodges)

January 19, 2014

I am deeply saddened by the loss of such a wonderful man in my life. Although we are only distantly related I always felt, as I know he did, a special bond with him. From drinking coffee with him in Hardee's as a little girl to spending many special moments at church, to personal moments with his many treasures, he will always hold a special place in my heart. He was always there for me and always looking out for me. He will never be forgotten by anyone who took the time to know him and listen to his stories. Thank you Joe, you have made my life better for knowing you. Love,

Susan Smith Griffin

January 19, 2014

I was sorry to hear of Joe's passing. He will be greatly missed at Menchville Baptist Church where I use to be a member. But he is now singing with the choir of angels in Heaven for our God!!

January 19, 2014

We would like to offer our sincere condolences to the family of Joe. I am so glad I got to see him and give him a hug at the last high school reunion. He was always a friend in school and after. He will be missed by so many and may God Bless each of you. Your friend and classmate. Carolyn and Norman Shelton Class of 1960...

January 18, 2014

Thank you for the time we got to fellowship..you will be missed by us both. Your singing in the choir will be truly missed.
Ruben and Helen Cimbron

John McMillan

January 18, 2014

Our prayers and thoughts are with you family during this sad time. We loved Joe and his passing leaves such a big void in all our lives even though we know we will see him again. Joe has been a blessing to our lives. "The memory of the righteous is a blessing"-Proverbs 10:7a

Nancy Cardoza

January 17, 2014

Joe was a wonderful person will miss him in choir.love to hear him sing.will see you one day God bless!

Paul & Elaine Bavusa

January 17, 2014

Joe, an old friend & a good neighbor. We will miss our times together telling our story's . Rest in Pease dear friend.

Sonny and Bernice Roscopf

January 17, 2014

We were shocked to hear of Joe's death. We will always remember his beautiful voice in the choir and especially when he would sing a solo in our church. He was faithful and we will miss him. "Absent from the body and present with the Lord." Sonny and Bernice Roscopf

Grace & Freddie Holman

January 17, 2014

Joe will be missed dearly. Just know that we love him, and know that we will see him again one day. You're in our hearts and prayers now and forever. We love you all. May God Bless you All.

Patricia Reese

January 17, 2014

Just a little note to let you know we're thinking of your family as you go through this time of sorrow. Joe is in Heaven with Uncle Joe and Aunt Gail. You all are in our prayers, remember that we love you all.

Frank & Barbara Lynn Patterson

January 17, 2014

Our remembrances spanded but five years, but as we read the warm, caring words of your friends and family we share their feelings. We reflect on our gatherings with you at Bob & Tina,s home. Kind words, good humor, thoughts on many subjects. Prays and strength to your love ones. Frank & Barbara Lynn

Dee Cornett Miller

January 17, 2014

My heartfelt condolences to all of you. I was stunned to hear the news of Joe's passing. We know the day will come but losing someone we love or are close too...always leaves us with such sorrow. Being neighbors as kids and growing up, we had fun times, went to the same schools, worked at the Glymont Theatre your Dad managed… I'll always remember the Joe with red hair and always so nice. I was happy we were able to reconnect on facebook. May God give you all comfort & peace. May the memories of Joe leave you with many smiles. He will be missed. You all are in my thoughts & prayers.

Charles Raynor

January 17, 2014

God has given us the gift of love. Something to love, he has loaned us. What we have in memory is ours to keep forever.

January 17, 2014

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Lindsay & Brad Carroll

January 17, 2014

So sorry to hear of your passing Joe. Our condolences to your family. You were a very kind neighbor. You were always very thoughtful. Anytime you found a book or painting that had anything to do with hunting, fishing or nature you would bring it over and give it to us. Everytime we see those pictures on the wall we will think of your kind soul. God bless.

Patricia Ezzell

January 17, 2014

I thank my God every time I remember you. Philippians 1:1 (New Century version) I miss you with all of my heart and I will always love you Joe. Life is so painful when we lose someone that is a strong part of our life and such an important one too, like you. I know God will heal my heart in time but until then I will grieve for you my dear brother and celebrate your life because by the total Grace of our God I will see you again. Love you your sister Pat

Barb Koder

January 17, 2014

Our deepest sympathy to all. May God hold you tightly in his arms as you walk through the gates of heaven.

Sherry & Steve Osborne

January 17, 2014

Bob, so sorry for the loss of your brother Joe. May God give you all the comfort and peace you need to get through this sad time. Our thoughts and Prayers are with you all

Sherry& Steve Osborne

January 17, 2014

Bob, so sorry for the loss of your brother Joe. May God give you all the comfort and peace you need to get through this sad time. Our thoughts and Prayers are with you all

Sherry & Steve Osborne

January 16, 2014

Bob so sorry for the loss of your brother Joe.May God give you all comfort and peace through this sad time. Our Prayers are with you all

Sherry & Steve Osborne

January 16, 2014

Bob, so sorry for the loss of your brother Joe. May God give you all comfort and peace during this sad time. Our Prayers are with you all

Sherry &Steve Osborne

January 16, 2014

Bob, so sorry for the loss of your brother Joe. May God give you all comfort and peace during this sad time. Our Prayers are with you all.

Sherry Osborne

January 16, 2014

Bob so sorry for the loss of your brother Joe may God give you all comfort and peace through this sad time

Sherry Osborne

January 16, 2014

Bob,I am so sorry for the loss of your brother Joe only met him once at Aunt Bess's birthday but he sure left an impression on me he was such a sweet,kind and humble man and I was looking forward to talking with him again.Want you to know my Prayers are with you and your family and I Pray God gives you all comfort in this

Bill and Debbie Vaccarelli

January 16, 2014

Your loss is shared by so many and we want you to know that you are in our hearts and prayers. Joe was a wonderful person and we will forever remember him.

Carole Gilson

January 16, 2014

Our souls cry for our loss, but heaven rejoices at your homecoming! You will be greatly missed Uncle Joe. your niece Carole, husband Brad and nephews, Joshua and Andy.

Brenda Fisher

January 16, 2014

I will miss you Uncle Joe! Your Niece....... Brenda husband Randy great nephews Ryan and Jacob Fisher.?

Barbara/Mark Sneed

January 16, 2014

We have you in our thoughts and prayers at this time of your sorrow. We did not have the pleasure of knowing Joe, but I'm sure he was the next best angel in your heart, God Bless...

Elaine and Joe Simmons

January 16, 2014

We were so blessed to be able to spend time with Joe at Aunt Bess's birthday party just never dreamed it would be my last visit with him on this earth. The next reunion will be in heaven but until then he will be greatly missed. He has always had a special place in my heart. Such a kind, gentle, and sweet man.

Parker Hooper

January 16, 2014

Thank you my brother in Christ for our friendship during our younger years. I am so sorry we lost contact over our later years. However, I know we will meet again in the Kingdom of The Lord. Rest in Christ. Parker

Bob Killen

January 16, 2014

I love you for all that you have taught me about history and research. We grew very close over the past 10 years.

Mike and Marci Kubick

January 16, 2014

Joe the world lost a wonderful friend when God called you home. May God now keep you in his loving arms and watch over you in heaven forever, and may God give your family the strength and all the love they need to help them get through your loss and May You Rest In Peace!

January 16, 2014

we will miss you so much . may you rest in peace Betty Cable first cousin

Bob Killen

January 16, 2014

I will miss you then the word will ever know. I love you dear brother. May God have you in his arms at this very moment.
Your loving brother,
Bob

Carmen Barrett

January 16, 2014

RIP and God Bless you Joe. It was an honor knowing you and you will be missed by so many. Buck and Carmen Barrett

Showing 1 - 41 of 41 results

Make a Donation
in Joseph Killen's name

Memorial Events
for Joseph Killen

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Peninsula Funeral Home & Crematory

11144 Warwick Boulevard, Newport News, VA 23601

How to support Joseph's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Joseph Killen's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more