Joseph Edwin King

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Mr. Joe King, 66, of Florence, MS, who departed this life peacefully at home on October 6, 2024. Born in August 1958 in Roxie, MS, Joe moved to Jackson after college and eventually found his home in Florence, where he created a life filled with love and adventure over the last 25 years.

Joe was a devoted husband to Barbara for 23 cherished years. Known as a jack-of-all-trades, he approached life with boundless enthusiasm and an impressive array of skills. A proud Mississippi High School State baseball champion at Franklin High School in Meadville, MS, Joe exemplified camaraderie and teamwork. His service in the Army National Guard further reflected his commitment to his country and community.

Throughout his professional journey, Joe made significant contributions to both the forestry and oil & gas industries. He worked in the Bakken Oilfields of North Dakota, where his expertise in production and midstream instrumentation flourished. Later, he returned home to Mississippi, continuing his work in the forestry industry with Couch Tree Services.

In recent years, Joe found immense joy in offshore fishing trips with his son, Berett King, and stepson, Alex Lenoir, exploring the beautiful waters of Costa Rica, Islamorada, Hawaii, and St. Petersburg, FL. He loved sharing tales of his adventurous days in Honduras, where he spent months seeking gold and helping local communities build roads. His infectious spirit and love for life were evident in his playful remark that Blue Bell ice cream was his Bud Light.

A loving family man, Joe created countless memories with his grandchildren, who delighted in being picked up from school in the “Big Truck.” His warm heart and unwavering willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need were hallmarks of his character, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara, and their blended family: son, Joseph Berett King; stepson, Alex Lenoir and wife Nikki Lenoir; stepdaughter Amy Smith; and stepson Chuck Woods and his wife Jennifer Woods. He also leaves behind his younger brothers, Rusty King and Johnny King, along with his adored grandchildren: Sadie Woods, Brady Woods, Avie Woods, Asher Smith, and Hattie Kumar.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John (Jack) King and Edwina King, and his eldest son, Brett King.

Joe King will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and zest for life. His legacy of love and adventure will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.