Joe L. Harwell Sr.’s life journey began on September 23, 1936, in Mason, Tennessee, where he was born to Jacob Harwell Sr. and Rolessie Harwell. During his youth Joe attended Bernard School; where he actively enjoyed playing basketball.

In 1954, Joe left his Tennessee roots and relocated to Buffalo, New York, determined to build a life of his own. He began a long career with Bethlehem Steel, where he worked faithfully until his retirement.

Joe met and married Reo Peyton Crule, and from their union came seven children: Diane (Thomas), Rolessie (Mart), Angel (Glenn), Joe Helen (Glenn), Rosalind, Linard (Leeila), and Joe Jr. Later in life, Joe married Geraldyne Harwell, and with that union his family grew as he opened his heart and home to her children, Jeff (Gina), Elmer (Habakkuk), and Tonya (Marvin).

Away from work, Joe found joy in the simple things. He especially loved gardening and took great pride in growing fresh fruits and vegetables. He enjoyed being outdoors, staying active, and doing things for himself. That independence remained an important part of who he was throughout his life.

Even during his long battle with cancer, Joe refused to let his illness define how he lived. He remained remarkably active and independent, continuing his routines and doing the things he enjoyed for as long as he was able and with support from his daughters Rolessie, & Diane and grandson Valentino. His determination and resilience were a reflection of the strength he carried throughout his life—from leaving Tennessee as a young man to build a new life in Buffalo, to facing his final years with that same unwavering spirit.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Jacob Harwell Sr. and Rolessie Harwell; his wife, Geraldyne Harwell; his sisters, Vivian, Geneive, EmmaLee, Unobia, Florine, and Benice; his brothers, Ernest, Jacob Jr., James, and Freddie James; his daughters, Angel and Joe Helen; his granddaughter, Reo; and his sons-in-law, Thomas and Mart.

He leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Valentino, Kurtis, Taundre’, Reo, Roslyn, Glenn, Tony, Valenteen, Zandell, and Alexis, as well as his bonus grandchildren, Latasha, Jeffery II, Jacqueline, Gerald, Jerome, and Tyrone. He also leaves a loving legacy through his cherished great- grandchildren, extended family, and many dear friends.

Joe lived a long and fulfilling life defined by hard work, independence, perseverance, and love for his family. The life he built, the lessons he taught, and the memories he created will remain with those who loved him for generations to come.

Relatives and friends may visit the Lombardo Funeral Home (Snyder Chapel) 4614 Main St. near Harlem Rd. on Saturday, September 12 from 11-12 PM where a funeral service will immediately follow at 12 o'clock. Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery.