Joseph Herbert Lathan Jr

On Friday, May 2, 2025, Joseph Herbert Lathan, Jr., loving father and grandfather, passed away at the age of 62.

Joe was born on June 18, 1962 in San Francisco, California to his adopted parents Joseph Herbert Lathan, Sr. and Rose Lourenco Lathan. Joe was raised in Las Vegas, Nevada and graduated from Western High School. After high school, Joe received his cosmetology license and worked as a hairdresser for many years. He was very talented and in high demand. While working at the JC Penney hair salon, Joe met his future wife, Melanee Stewart Abelson. Joe and Melanee were married in 1990. Two years later, they were blessed with the birth of their daughter and the light of their lives, Hayley. Although Joe and Melanee were later divorced, they remained in touch as loving parents. Joe was blessed with the birth of his second daughter, Francesca, in 1996. Joe had a special relationship with both of his daughters. Joe and Hayley were especially close and texted or spoke almost daily. Following his hair dressing years, Joe received his CDL license and worked in transportation as a truck driver and driving taxi.

Joe was a big kid at heart. He had a daring spirit and loved trying new things. Whether it was riding dirt bikes, racing Sea Doo’s or snowboarding, Joe usually had the highest jump, the fastest run and the biggest smile. Joe loved his daughters and nephews, and loved spending time with them. From bowling and petting zoo trips, to just hanging out playing guitars, Joe was always the biggest kid in the group.

Joe had many passions and a friendly personality. He could easily make friends anywhere he went. Joe loved music, movies and attending the Renaissance Faire each year. Joe was always researching and learning new things. He was eager to share new interests and findings with his family and friends. Above all, Joe loved being a grandpa. He cherished the time he got to spend with his daughter Hayley and his grandson James.

Joe was preceded in death by his father Joseph Herbert Lathan, Sr.

Joe is survived by his daughters Hayley and Francesca, his brother Michael, his sisters Kimberly and Jeanine, his mother Rose, his grandson James, his nephews Zack and Austin, and many other relatives.

Joe was part of a large extended family and had many longtime friends. Joe was truly loved and will surely be missed.

A mass will be held on June 6, 2025 at 11:00 am at St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church located at 1111 Michael Way, Las Vegas, Nevada 89108.