Joe Huff

Wood River:

Joe Huff, 78, died peacefully at his home on August 31, 2025, surrounded by love. Born on October 26, 1946, in Alton, Illinois, he was the son of the late William and Elma (Terpening) Huff. He married Sherry Brueggeman on June 8, 1978, in Las Vegas, Nevada, and she survives him. His family includes his three daughters and sons-in-law: Stacey and Johnny Wilkerson from Cypress, Texas; Stephanie and Gino Hernandez from Cypress; and Shari and Craig Wendt from Katy, Texas. He is also survived by his son and best friend, Brett Huff of Rosewood Heights, along with his eight grandchildren—Elizabeth, Amber, Colton, Kaylee, Alec, Ethan, Aiden, and Caleb—and four great-grandchildren. Additionally, Joe leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. All of which he believed was his legacy and his greatest achievements. He said, “Family is Everything”.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his infant son, Michael Patrick Huff, and his brother, James Huff.

Joe served as a teacher and coach at Roxana Community Schools for 40 years, teaching elementary school and coaching football, baseball, and wrestling. He valued his relationships with colleagues, especially the bond he shared with the Roxana coaching staff. Coach Huff is remembered for his humor, humility, and positive influence on students, athletes, and the Roxana community. Even after retiring, he remained dedicated to Roxana athletics. In 2025, he was inducted into the Roxana High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

In celebration of his life, private family funeral services were held at 10:30am on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Burial followed at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.

Memorials in Joe Huff’s honor may be sent to the Roxana Schools Educational Partnership Foundation at 401 Chaffer Avenue, Roxana, Illinois, 62084.