Joe Thomas Husband, 79, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026, at Merit Health Wesley Hospital in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, surrounded by the family who loved him dearly.

Joe was born on September 13, 1946, in Raleigh, Mississippi, to Dent and Cora Mae (Middleton) Husband.

A 1966 graduate of Raleigh High School, Joe soon answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps. He honorably served during the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1968. Following his military service, he returned home and married the love of his life, Jimmie Sue Yates, on August 16, 1969. Together they shared 56 years of marriage and built a family legacy rooted in faith, kindness, integrity, and love.

Joe continued his education and earned a degree in History from William Carey College. Throughout his life, he remained active in his community, serving as a substitute teacher in the Raleigh School System, coaching Little League baseball, and faithfully serving as a Deacon at First Baptist Church of Raleigh.

One of Joe’s greatest passions was woodworking. He possessed a remarkable talent for creating handcrafted treasures that will be enjoyed by family and friends for generations. Among his many creations were a life-sized three-car train that children could ride, miniature train sets, Christmas decorations, cedar chests, swing sets, baby cradles, and countless other projects crafted with patience, skill, and love.

Whether attending a ball game, building a cradle for a grandchild, serving his church, or helping a neighbor, Joe demonstrated his love through quiet acts of service and unwavering devotion to those around him.

Joe was a proud father to three children: Elaine Husband of Raleigh, Mississippi; Joey Husband (Hope Husband) of Sumrall, Mississippi; and Zack Husband of Sumrall, Mississippi.

Being a grandfather was one of his greatest joys. He was the devoted grandfather of Alexis Breanna Husband, Austin Thomas Husband, and Ashleigh Anna Husband. He rarely missed a ball game, school activity, scouting event, or special occasion and took great pride in supporting each of his grandchildren. One of his proudest moments was being honored by Austin during his Eagle Scout achievement.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dent and Cora Mae Husband, and his brothers, Bobby Husband and Gerald Husband.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Jimmie Sue Husband; his daughter, Elaine Husband; his sons, Joey Husband (Hope Husband) and Zack Husband; and his cherished grandchildren, Alexis Husband, Austin Husband, and Ashleigh Anna Husband. He is also survived by his sister, Helen Yates Benavides, and his brother, Gaddis “Bull” Yates, along with numerous extended family members and friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Joe’s family never questioned his faith. He was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, and they find comfort in knowing he is now in the presence of the Savior he faithfully served.

To know Joe was to love him. He never met a stranger, offered kindness freely, and leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, craftsmanship, and unconditional love.

Visitation will be held at Liberty Baptist Church, Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., with funeral services immediately following. Interment will follow at Liberty Baptist Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Joey Husband, Zack Husband, Austin Husband, David Husband, Gaddis “Uncle Bull” Yates, and Corey Bond.

Honorary Pallbearer: BoBo Bowen.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the many prayers, acts of kindness, and support shown during Joe’s illness and passing.

His lessons, love, and example will remain in the hearts of those who knew him for generations to come.