Joseph Ernest Doddridge Jr.

February 15, 1942 – March 20, 2025
Joseph Ernest Doddridge Jr., a dedicated public servant, conservation advocate, loving husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025, at Arcadia Nursing Home in Easton, Maryland. He was 83 years old.
Born in Buffalo, New York, on February 15, 1942, Joe graduated from St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute and went on to earn his degree from Niagara University in 1963. Upon graduation, he received a commission in the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
Joe devoted over three decades of his life to the U.S. Department of the Interior, where his commitment to environmental stewardship left a lasting national impact. From 1966 until his retirement in 2002, he held numerous leadership positions, culminating in his role as Acting Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks. There, he played a vital role in shaping conservation policy, championing initiatives such as the Everglades Restoration, Green Energy Parks, and the American Family Immigration History Center at Ellis Island.
Joe also served for nearly 20 years on the Board of Directors of the Statue of Liberty–Ellis Island Foundation, furthering his lifelong dedication to preserving the nation's historical and environmental treasures.
His influence reached across the country through his work with the Coral Reef Task Force, the Migratory Bird Conservation Committee, and collaborations with tribal nations and environmental organizations. Joe's ability to lead complex negotiations and navigate high-profile public land initiatives earned him the Presidential Distinguished Rank Award and the Department of the Interior Distinguished Service Award, among other honors.
Outside of his professional achievements, he shared 57 years of marriage with his wife and partner in travel and biking, Jackie Vermette Doddridge.
Joe was an avid sports fan and proud supporter of the Washington Redskins, Nationals, Orioles, and Bullets/Wizards. He also had a passion for travel and biking, always eager to explore new places and stay active.
Joe is survived by his sons, Peter (Helen) and Timothy, his sister, Susan Manion Frey, his brother, James Doddridge, and many beloved nieces and nephews. His passing came just after a visit from his lifelong friend, Terry Hebert, whom he had known since they were cheerleaders at Niagara University.
A service to honor Joe's life will be held on April 26 at 11 a.m. at The Chapel of St. Philip, located in the Family of Life Center at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Easton, Maryland. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in his memory.