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BORN
1939
DIED
2024
Joe Camp Obituary
Joe Camp was the creator, screenwriter, and director behind the beloved "Benji" movie franchise.
We invite you to share condolences for Joe Camp in our Guest Book.
Read Full Obituary.
(Photo: David Livingston/Getty Images)
13 Entries
Barry & Danna Beith
June 17, 2025
To Kathleen, Brandon, and all the Joe's famility. We had the honor of getting to know Joe and his beautiful wife, attending their wedding, as well as their premier of Benji Off the Leash in his home town in Mississippi. Of all Joe offerred those around him, no one could know him without stories and life lessions lingering. Proud to have know you Joe. Even after all these years, we feel the lose. The world was a better place because of you and now, heaven is.
Barbara A. Shafer-Altman
December 31, 2024
Joe thank you for your wonderful stories, for teaching me to be a stronger Christian and making my life just a little bit brighter. I'm very sure that Higgins was there meet you at the gate. Enjoy Heaven and thank you again for everything.
Nj
July 31, 2024
Nj
July 31, 2024
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Nj
July 31, 2024
Angels gently took you to the Heavens into the arms of Jesus and in the midst of all eternal beauty, peace, blessings, grace, and eternal love along with all those who are already in God´s kingdom. Your gift of stories of Benji and the horses will inspire for generations.
God bless you and your loved ones.
Thomas D Bounds
May 17, 2024
Far too young, we will miss you Joe.
EDO
March 27, 2024
I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Joe Camp. There is no doubt that he will be missed by all who knew him personally and professionally. Please remember, God is close to the broken hearted. And there is never a tear that he doesn't see.
May you also find comfort knowing that God is aware of your pain, and may he give you the strength needed as you continue on this journey of life.
Respectfully,
Ruth Swander
March 25, 2024
A huge shock and a huge loss. I only "knew" Joe through online communication. Started with a letter my then 6-yr old Grandson, Hunter, wrote to Benji to tell him not to be afraid of having eye surgery because he had just had eye surgery himself. Joe sent a "Thank You" note with some Benji mementos and a 20+ year friendship began. We had a running joke about Kathleen turning him on to Kindle books. Joe always signed my books, "Thanks so much! GOD Bless, Joe Camp. I would tease him that I would go to "his" Kindle books when he could figure out how to sign his "GOD Bless" in them. He responded with "Point taken."
My heart, my love, my prayers are with Kathleen, their children, and all the family. (Matthew 5:4)
GOD saw you getting tired, and a cure was not to be; so He put His arms around you and whispered, "Come with Me." With tearful eyes, we watched you suffer and saw you fade away. Although we loved you dearly, we could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest. GOD broke our hearts to prove to us..."He only takes the best!"
Donna James
March 22, 2024
Joe, You made your movies about Benji laugh cry, and inspire us all.
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
May you now be with Jesus. Rest in peace, Mr Camp.
Elizabeth Riddle
March 20, 2024
Joe,
So many thoughts and words for what a difference you and Benji have made to so many, including me, in this life. The memories and the Love created will be with each of us forever. I am truly blessed to know you-I don't know how the stars aligned for it to be Daisy and me that got to be the ones to make Benji Love Project happen here in McKinney, and for you to be so gracious in sharing your time and many wonderful words of wisdom, but we love you and you will Always be with us. My sincere love to Kathleen, Joeleen and ALL of your Family
Elizabeth Bell
March 19, 2024
R.I.P. Joe
Jenee Emlyn
March 19, 2024
I am so sorry about the loss of Joe-I grew up on Benjie; Joe will definitely never be forgotten. The family has my deepest condolences and I pray that you will be surrounded continuously with love and support. As you go through this difficult time, may Almighty God give you "everlasting comfort" (2 Thess. 2:16).
John Klembarsky
March 19, 2024
I remember being in high school in the late 70´s. My parents were out of town, and wanted something to do. I saw that For the Love of Benji was playing at the theatre. Knowing what Mr. Camp wanted to do with this film caught my attention. I went and saw the film. I loved it, and when my parents returned I made them go to see it as well. They loved it too. We actually saw it three times, we loved it so much! When it was available, I bought my copy of the movie, plus the others in the series. I developed a friendly relationship with one of the secretaries from Mulberry Square Productions. She would answer all my questions about Benji and his trainer, Frank Inn (there were many!). I believe I still have those corespondenses along with other mementos she sent me. I pursued an elementary teaching degree. Benji films were used yearly in my room, until I retired. Joe Camp was a very talented man, and I am so glad I made that first attempt to go see his film. My grandchildren have continued to enjoy them as well. He is now at peace with Benji. They are probably enjoying their new found life together. Thank you Mr. Camp for a wonderful journey, and believing in yourself to go ahead with your projects. May you rest in peace. I´ll sign myself a devoted fan.
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