Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Joseph Metcalf Obituary
VICE ADMIRAL JOSEPH METCALF, III
Vice Admiral Joseph Metcalf, III passed away March 2, 2007.
Born in Holyoke, MA on December 20, 1927, he graduated from the Naval Academy in 1951. He held sea commands in each grade, Lieutenant through Vice Admiral.
After his retirement in 1987 he participated in numerous panels on the full range of naval operations. He served on numerous boards, he was the District Chairman of the National Capital Region Boy Scouts of America, and was a member of the vestry of Saint Patrick's Episcopal Church.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Ruth; three children, Dr. Joseph Metcalf IV of Knoxville TN, David Daniels Metcalf of Wellington FL, and Elizabeth Metcalf Miller of Reston, VA, and 11 grandchildren.
Funeral services to be held 10:30 a.m., March 8, 2007 at the Naval Academy Chapel at US Naval Academy. Interment to follow. Enter Naval Academy Gate 8 from Rte. 450.
Memorial donations may be made to the Surface Navy Scholarship Fund.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Metcalf
Sponsored by family and friends.
John Cornell
February 28, 2022
Difficult to believe Vadm. Metcalf has been dead fifteen years! I still vividly remember the many experiences we shared when I served as his XO on the USS King County (Ag-157). He was a true leader and a remarkable individual.
John Cornell
Capt. USN (ret.)
Carolyn Bowen
June 17, 2012
Dear Ruth, in 1952 we were all on the USS
Watts--DD567 in Norfolk,VA--God Bless, could I hear from you???
Patrick Burke
March 16, 2007
Dear Mrs. Metcalf, Elizabeth and all of the family,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Admiral Metcalf. He was such an amazing person and a true American patriot. I am honored to have know him, and to know the special warmth of his family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Richard R. Norgrove
March 13, 2007
Dear Ruth; I served under Joseph when he was the Captain of the USS Bradley. My heart felt sorrow goes out to you for your loss. Please know that I held him in high regard and thought of him often when I talked about my time on the Bradley with friends and family members.
Peter Orvis
March 13, 2007
Ruth and Family-
I first knew Joe when he and I taught Ordnance and Gunnery at the Naval Academy as Lieutenants and saw him throughout our Naval careers. He was a great guy and shipmate and a damned fine Naval Officer. I was shocked and saddened to read his obituary in The Washuington Post. I'm sorry to have missed his service at Annapolis.
All the best,
Captain Peter H. Orvis, USN(Ret)
Admiral James A. Lyons, Jr.
March 13, 2007
Dear Ruth,
I was somewhat shocked to hear of Joe's untimely passing.
I had heard he was having some medical problems but
nothing of that magnitude. I was sorry to miss the funeral
but we were on a trip. For many years Joe was the leader
in the surface warfare community and did an outstanding job.
I remember like it was yesterday when Joe relieved me as
Command, Second Fleet. I know you all had a great time at
Georgia House.
Again Ruth, please accept Renee and my sincere condolences.
All The Best
Ace
richard towne
March 13, 2007
Dear Ruth & Family:
I was saddened to read about Joe's death in the boston globe yesterday. It brought back memories of your early courtship and marriage in the days when we lived in Holyoke. His was such a wonderful story of success and a marriage that exemplified all that should be in that sacrement. My thoughts and my wife, Peggy's, and prayers are very much with you and your fammily during this period of loss. Best regards,
Brenda Tierney Uyak
March 12, 2007
Mrs. Metcalf, Joe, David, and Elizabeth,
I am so sorry to hear about Adm. Metcalf's passing. I will always remember his sense of humor and gentle teasing. He inspired more than one generation of SWO's as my brother can attest. On behalf of Mark, Maureen, Terri and myself we hope you find comfort in your memories of him, and know that he touched so many others.
Orian Sedlow
March 12, 2007
I don't have much to say except rest in peace Admiral. I know you're nephew Pete and his son Joseph, know 'em for 12 long years, and I'll watch over Joseph, my best friend, closely.
Allyson Hart Benavides
March 12, 2007
Dear Elizabeth and family,
I only this morning heard of your father's passing. Elizabeth, I remember your father fondly when we were growing up -- his funny remarks to us as we talked for hours either on the phone or in your room, and the incredible way he and your mother very quickly made me feel part of your family. I lost my father three years (long? short?) ago, and I understand... what exactly I understand, I can't put into words. But I do.
My family and I are now living in Fredericksburg. If you ever want to talk, catch up, or simply have someone listen, please let me know. You can contact me any time.
Again, my sincere and prayerful thoughts are with you and your family. Your father was an amazing and honorable man who truly loved his country and his family.
Much love,
Allyson Hart Benavides
540-368-1431
Tolley Gorham
March 11, 2007
Hello Mrs. Metcalf,
I was saddened to hear of the passing of one of my greatest U. S. Navy heroes. I was a young sailor aboard the USS Bradley under the command of Commander (Skipper) Metcalf. I will always remember his leadership and seamanship, and how inspired and loyal his entire crew were, and remain. We all knew he was someone special.
John Cornell
March 9, 2007
Dear Ruth and family,
My sincerest heartfelt condolences to you and your entire family. After attending the memorial services at Annapolis and hearing the many expressions of Admiral Metcalf's leadership and his deep caring and concern for all people I would like to add the following comments.
I was Admiral Metcalf's Executive Officer(XO)when he was Commanding Officer(CO) of the USS King County(AG-157). This was his first sea command, he was a Lieutenant, and I was a Lieutenant JG. The favorite punishment for the occasional errant sailor that came to Mast before Admiral Metcalf (then Lieutenant Metcalf)was "Three days bread and water" in the brig on the Naval Base at Port Hueneme. When Admiral Metcalf awarded this punishment, he would invariably tell each sailor to come and see him in his cabin when he returned from the brig.
When each sailor returned to the ship Admiral Metcalf would meet with him, counsel him and establish goals for the sailor. Admiral Metcalf would follow-up on a weekly basis to ensure the sailor was accomplishing these goals. If the sailor demonstrated he was "doing his best", Admiral Metcalf was satisfied. In summary, Admiral Metcalf had a profound effect on a number of young men and literally turned around their young lives.
When I became Commanding Officer of a Navy Destroyer, I did the same thing that I had seen Admiral Metcalf do as a Lieutenant in command of a ship. My Executive Officer, who later was Commanding Officer of a Navy Destroyer, told me he had done the same thing. Admiral Metcalf would have called this a "Force Multiplier." This lesson in leadership taught by a "caring man" is being passed on to this day.
Admiral Metcalf was my Captain, my Shipmate, my Mentor and my Friend. It was my great privilege to have both served with him and to have known him.
John Cornell
Captain, USN(ret.)
Duane Clifton
March 9, 2007
May you rest in peace Admiral.
Duane Clifton, CPO, USN RET
USS Bradley FF1041 1967-70
Sue Howell
March 9, 2007
Dear Elizabeth and family,
I was sorry to hear of your father's passing. I know this time has been difficult for all. Know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this sad time.
Debby Saraceni
March 8, 2007
Dear Dr. Metcalf. I was so sorry to hear about your father's passing and want to extend to you my deepest sympathy. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May God be with you and your family.
Jane Kay
March 8, 2007
Dear Elizabeth and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. He was a fine man and I have special memories of his visit to my home. Love, Jane
Stephanie Cook
March 7, 2007
Mrs. Metcalf, David and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Admiral Metcalf's passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this sad time.
Love,
Stephanie Cook and family (Lucy Anne and Don Black's daughter)
Bernie and Louise Rostker
March 7, 2007
Ruth, it was with the greatest sorrow that we learned of Joe's passing. We remember so fondly the times we spent together and his many kindnesses to us. It was our privilege to know him professionally and personally. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Jim & Mary Normand
March 7, 2007
We were very saddened to hear of the loss of your father. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time. May your memories bring you comfort. Let us know if thee is anything we can do to help you.
Anthony L. (Tony) Spezia
March 7, 2007
Sincere condolences from all the Leadership at Covenant Health.
Stan Weeks
March 7, 2007
Many of us will remember the Admiral as a decisive and inspiring leader. Sincere condolences on your loss.
Charlie Nemfakos
March 7, 2007
Ruth and children,
My deepest sympathy for the loss of Joe and prayer that your pain will be mitigated by the sure knowledge that God will welcome a sailor, even with a cigar in his mouth, who served his country long and well.
Deanna Lowe
March 7, 2007
Dr. Metcalf,
My prayers and thoughts are with you. I pray that God will give you and your family peace and strength during this difficult time.
Captain Nelson Jackson, USN (Ret.)
March 7, 2007
Dear Mrs. Metcalf,
Joe was a long time friend though we had not seen each other in many years. He was a man of courage, conviction and integrity as well as a person of great humor. His leadership lives as a lasting testimony to his patriotism. May you and your family be at peace knowing that Joe has honored his family and served us all well.
Dawn Ward
March 7, 2007
Dr. Metcalf,
I'm so sorry to hear of your Father's passing. I know it can leave an empty place in your heart, but God is with you and your loving memories will not fade.
May God bless you and keep you in his fold.
Doris Colston
March 7, 2007
Dear Dr. Metcalf,
Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. God's love and grace surrounds you always but especially at times like this.
Brad Carter
March 6, 2007
My family and I pray that you will receive solace and strength during your time of loss.
Melanie Urban
March 6, 2007
Dear Mrs. Metcalf and David,
Mark and I were truly sorry to hear of Admiral Metcalf's passing. You both have always been such wonderful friends to my parents, as well as Mark and I, and we have fond memories of our visits with you and David, both in Vienna and your home in Georgetown. Our love and prayers go out to you and your family at this very sad time. Love Always, The Mark Urban Family
Russ Frazier
March 6, 2007
Dr. Metcalf and Family,
Our deepest sympathies to you and your family. I hope that our prayers give you some comfort in one of life's most difficult times.
Russ Frazier and Family
Tamra Wooten
March 6, 2007
Dr Metcalf, Sorry to hear about the loss of your father, but want you to know you are in my thoughts & prayers.
Lisa Akens
March 6, 2007
Dr. Metcalf and family.....
My prayers are with you at this trying time. Remember GOD can offer peace that passes all understanding....
Lisa Akens
Oak Ridge Surgeons
Marettia Leopper
March 6, 2007
I am sorry to hear of your loss.
Your family is in my thoughts and
prayers.
Sue Davis
March 6, 2007
So sorry to hear of your loss.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Phyllis Mutz and family
March 6, 2007
Dr Metcalf and family,
my deepest sympathy in the loss of your father. You are certainly in our thoughts and prayers.
Marsha Ruby
March 6, 2007
Love and prayers for you and your family. This a very difficult time for and I will pray for your strength and God's help for you and all your loved ones.
June La Rosa
March 6, 2007
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Sharon Kebert
March 6, 2007
Dear Dr. Metcalf and family,
My prayers are with you .
God Bless,
Sharon Kebert
Kim Groff
March 6, 2007
Dr.Metcalf and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. If there is anything we can do for you, please don't hesitate to call.
Kim Groff & family
Pam Holt
March 6, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Jan McNally
March 6, 2007
Dear Joe,
Your family at Methodist Medical Center extends our deepest sympathy to you and other members of your family in the recent death of your father. I am sure that your memories of your father are comforting to you as you remember and honor his life at this time.
Sincerely,
The staff and physicians of MMC.
Aimee Adams
March 6, 2007
My prayers are with your family.
Showing 1 - 42 of 42 results
Make a Donation
in Joseph Metcalf's name
Memorial Events
for Joseph Metcalf
How to support Joseph's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Joseph Metcalf's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
