Joseph Morris "Joe" Schaefer Jr.

Joseph "Joe" Morris Schaefer, Jr., a devoted father, brother, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on October 9th, 2024, at the age of 81. Born on September 17th, 1943, in Lexington, Kentucky, to Lucille and Joseph Schaefer, Sr., Joseph spent the majority of his life in Louisville, where he built a legacy of service, dedication, and love for his family and community.
After graduating from Eastern Kentucky University, Joe was drafted into the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War where he was stationed in Nevada as an electrician for F-4 fighter jets. Following his military service, Joseph dedicated 35 years of his professional career to the Internal Revenue Service, where his work impacted many, especially tax-evading criminals from the mountains of Kentucky.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Joseph began his love for college basketball as a diehard University of Kentucky fan; but in later years, much to his daughter's disappointment, he shifted his allegiance to the University of Louisville. He remained a passionate fan throughout his life.
Joe cherished simple pleasures, and there was nothing he loved more than spending an evening at a baseball game. Joe spent his last three years in Denver, Colorado where, despite an extreme fear of heights, he ventured to the top of Pikes Peak and crossed the Continental Divide, marveling at the breathtaking sights he encountered.
Joe was predeceased by his brother, William Schaefer, who was killed in action during the Vietnam War. He is survived by his brother, Carl Edward Schaefer; and his wife, Cheryl; his son, William Schaefer; and his daughters, Rebecca Flora and Jodi Eppler; Jodi's husband, David Eppler, and their two children, David Eppler Jr. and Emmalyn Eppler, along with Rebecca's children, Quintin Thomas and Summer Flora, who will carry on his legacy of love and family values. He is also survived by his nieces, Alexandra Howard and Anastasia Schaefer.
Joe will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his memory will forever live in the hearts of his family and friends.
Visitation will be Sunday, October 20th from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm with his funeral service at 12:00 pm at Highlands Funeral Home, 3331 Taylorsville Road. Burial will follow at Cave Hill Cemetery.