Joe Hand Campbell Sr.

Joe Hand Campbell Sr., 89, of Flowood, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025. Ott & Lee Funeral Home in Brandon, MS is handling arrangements.

Born on June 15, 1936, in Raymondville, Texas, to Robert Dan Campbell Sr. and Gladys Campbell. Joe was the youngest of four siblings, Dan, John, and Barbara Campbell.

Joe spent his formative years in Brandon, Mississippi, where he excelled as an All-Little Dixie Conference running back in high school. A spirited anecdote from his youth recalls how he played football without his mother’s knowledge, only revealed when he was brought home concussed after a game. After graduating in 1955, Joe continued his football career at Hinds Junior College, where he met and married Lacey Ann Graham in 1956. He later attended Mississippi Southern College (later becoming USM) in Hattiesburg graduating in 1959 which laid the foundation for a remarkable career.

Joe’s professional journey began in his high school summers, setting flares for Hyde Construction Company’s night crews. After college, he joined Hyde full-time, living in various towns across Mississippi and Kentucky. In 1962, he returned to Jackson to contribute to the construction of the Ross Barnett Reservoir. His leadership and expertise led him to become a foreman and later a construction supervisor. In 1968, Joe co-founded Associated Constructors, relocating the company to Flowood in 1969.

In 1988, he co-founded Delta Constructors, buying out parts of Associated. Renowned for his mastery in water and sewer construction, Joe earned a reputation as one of Mississippi’s most knowledgeable and reputable contractors. His peers honored him by electing him president of the state Associated General Contractors (AGC). During the Jackson water crisis, Joe’s expertise was instrumental in repairing the city’s disabled water treatment plant, though, true to his character, he shunned media attention for his efforts.

Known for his cut-to-the-chase demeanor, Joe’s handshake was as binding as any contract, earning him the respect and admiration of his workers and colleagues. His entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of multiple businesses, providing employment to countless individuals.

Joe is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Lacey Ann Campbell; son Dr. Joe Hand Campbell Jr. (Beth) daughters Theresa Campbell Irby (Mark) and Michele Campbell Dashiell (Austin); grandchildren Mary Allison Jack, Dr. Madeline Fitzpatrick, Margaret Campbell, Steven Irby, Lacey Irby, Jonathan Dashiell and Lauren Dashiell and great-grandchild Penelope Jack.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or a charity of your choice. Joe’s legacy of integrity, hard work, and quiet service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.