Joseph Earl Thain

Joseph Earl Thain, 88, died peacefully on Sunday, August 3, 2025 after a long and tenacious battle with Alzheimer's Disease.

Joe was born to Samuel Benjamin and Flonnie Mae Thain in rural Newton Grove, North Carolina. With the loss of his father at the age of five, Joe became a vital worker on the family farm. He attended Grantham High School (class of 1956) and received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Atlantic Christian College, where he played on the baseball team. After moving to Virginia, Joe completed his master's in school administration, and his certificate of advanced studies at Old Dominion University.

Joe had a long and prestigious career with Norfolk Public Schools as a PE teacher and school administrator, ending his career as the beloved principal of Granby Elementary School. His favorable reputation still lives on. Upon retirement, he worked independently as a consultant for Norfolk Public Schools.

During his early years in Norfolk, Joe lived in West Ghent and was instrumental in the start up of the Mallory Pool and Country Club. He most notably served as the swim coach, bringing a fledgling team to victory in the championships. If you happen to run into any of his former swimmers, they will still brag shamelessly about that win! Joe was also an active member of the Rotary Club.

Until dementia took his memory, Joe was a proud member of the Norfolk Sports Club and the Norfolk Boat Club where he enjoyed the camaraderie and friendship of many. On any evening, and some days, you could be certain to find Joe in his six-decade-long season ticket seat at Harbor Park. He attended almost every game each season and had a family of fellow baseball fans surrounding him each game.

Joe is survived by his son Charles and daughter-in-law Shannon, his twin grandsons, Tanner and Reed, all of Virginia Beach, his sister Erma Lee Raynor, Newton Grove, N.C., a large and loving North Carolina family of nieces and nephews, and his best friend, soulmate and love of his life, Pat Melise of Norfolk, VA. He is predeceased by his parents, his eldest son, Samuel Benjamin Thain, and his older sister, Mallie Mae Giddens.

Joe will be set to rest along with his son Ben on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. According to Joe's wishes, there will be no service; however, a celebration of life will be held in the near future. Details will be available when known.

So much love and gratitude goes out to the staff at Arden Courts Memory Center, Virginia Beach for loving and caring for Joe as much as we do. They are unsung heroes and hold a very special place in our hearts.

Condolences may be left online at www.altmeyerfh.com

To honor Joe, here are some options:

If you are in or near Wilson, North Carolina, go to Parker's BBQ and order a family-style meal.

Consume copious amounts of ice cream, preferably directly from the container and enjoy it like it was your first taste!

Spend a night at Harbor Park and enjoy the game! Sing especially loud during Sweet Caroline and Take Me Out to the Ballgame.

Take a walk or a bike ride several times each day! The neighbors miss seeing Joe out there!

Have a gin and tonic on a warm summer evening.

Donations may be made in Joe's name to The Alzheimer's Association by going to www.tmcfunding.com or by clicking "HERE"