Joe Plato

Celebrating his life; honoring his legacy; forever in our hearts...

It was a brisk Wednesday evening in Atlanta, Georgia on December 20, 2000, when Joe and Patrice Plato received a blessing in human form: Their firstborn Joe Solomon Plato, Jr. entered this life, letting out his first cry and blinking his bright eyes. The young military family left Atlanta and moved to Sacramento, California after Joe was born, where they welcomed their 2nd son, Juwaun. Shortly thereafter, they PCS'd to Abilene, Texas where they settled and continued to grow their family.

Joe, affectionately known as "Little Joe" or "JoeJoe" by his family and close friends, was the sweetest little guy. He attended Dyess Elementary School and later moved on to Clack Middle School, in Abilene, Texas. During those formative years, JoeJoe enjoyed playing little league sports - baseball, basketball, and football - and his teammates became good friends. Some of those bonds strengthened and followed him over to Cooper High School, where he played football, and his circle of friends continued to grow.

Upon his high school graduation on May 25, 2019, Joe made the honorable decision to enlist in the U.S. Air Force, where he served for the last 6 years. He began his career at Nellis Air Force Base (AFB) in Nevada with Security Forces, 99th Security Forces Squadron. He later transferred to the 87th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron (Dentistry) at McGuire Air Force Base (AFB) in New Jersey.

Initially inspired by his father, Joe became increasingly passionate about working out, hiking, and traveling. He would often talk to his confidant and first cousin Neyah, sharing private moments on the phone discussing relationships and fitness goals. He developed a more disciplined lifestyle focused on maximizing physical training, nutrition, and wellness as he was transitioning into the realm of bodybuilding. His aim was to perform in competitions later this year in April. He was looking and feeling his strongest - proud of his weightlifting skills and abilities. As his intrigue for fitness grew, so did his thirst and love for The Word. A true believer committed to growing his personal relationship with God, Joe found his tribe and an extended church family at Word of Life Christian Center in New Jersey. He actively attended every week, renewed his faith, and made the decision to get baptized in September 2025.

JoeJoe expressed the upmost love, respect, and devotion for his parents and his family. He IS extremely close to his siblings. The bond among his brothers and sisters is both beautiful and inspiring to witness. Joe will always be remembered by his family and loved ones for his loving, kind, silly, humble, joyful, and charming spirit. Simply put, his personality encompassed everything "good". He had a manner-able, quiet, and gentle nature that is truly unforgettable.

Joe Solomon Plato, Jr.'s assignment on earth ended peacefully on January, 29, 2026. In his 25 years, he created a legacy of love, light, and inspiration. Those who will forever cherish his sweet memory are: His loving parents - father, Joe Solomon Plato, Sr.; mother, Patrice Scott; siblings: Juwaun Plato, Janiya Plato, Cadance McKinney, and Titus Plato; paternal grandmother, Shirley Plato Johnson; Uncles: Alquin Williams (Carolyn), Perry Scott, Mario Scott, and Bryan Scott; Aunts: Tyies Fleeting, Cheryl Bryant (Bruce), Marie Scott, Sharon Jackson Bell (Vernon), and Tanisha Collins; extended family-the Baccus (Cole/Justice) Family; and a host of cousins, close relatives, loved ones, and friends.

Joe was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Betty Nalls; paternal grandfather, Joe D. Plato; and uncle, Tavales Nalls.