Joseph Earl Levy, Jr.

04/29/1941 - 03/17/2024

Obituary For Joseph Earl Levy, Jr.

Joseph Earl Levy, Jr. - A Life Well Lived (April 29, 1941 - March 17, 2024)

Joseph Earl Levy, Jr., fondly known as "Dick" Levy, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2024, at Atrium Health Center Cabarrus. He fought a courageous battle against prostate cancer, leaving a legacy of resilience and a spirit that will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Earl, the son of Joseph Earl Levy, Sr. and Bernice Ventress Levy was born in Maringouin, Louisiana, on April 29, 1941. He attended T.A. Levy High School, a school named for his grandfather, Reverend-Doctor Thomas A. Levy. He continued his education at historically Black colleges, Southern University and St. Paul's College, graduating with a BS degree in Mathematics.

Earl served his country in the United States Army, stationed in Vietnam and Germany. Following his military service, Earl had a distinguished career. He was one of the first African American managers at E. I. DuPont de Nemours and Company, working with the startup team of DuPont Kevlar in Richmond, Virginia. He retired from DuPont after over 30 years of service in both Martinsville and Richmond. He also held positions at JB Hunt Transport Services and owned his own business, Levy's Construction and Remodeling.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Earl was a man of many passions. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Sons of Soloman No. 111 Free and Accepted Prince Hall Masonic Lodge, Martinsville VA, and the Martinsville Hunt Club. He loved Westerns, sports (golf, tennis, skiing, fishing, and hunting), spending time with his family and friends, and was known for his infectious laugh and love of a good joke. His sense of humor and quick wit could light up a room, put a smile on anyone's face, and will continue to inspire those who knew him. He could also find humor in any situation.

Earl met the love of his life, Joanne Fuller Levy, in Martinsville, VA. They were married for 58 years after tying the knot on August 15, 1966. Earl is survived by two daughters, Kimberly Edwards and Veleria M. Levy. He was a devoted grandfather to Jordan Jeraud Edwards and namesake, Joseph Earl Levy, III. He is also survived by his siblings Jerome Levy (Lottie), Olgarita Cauthen (Boyce "Jimmy"), Sidney W. Levy (Pauline), Thomas Levy (Lola), Graylin Bartley, and Shirley Palmer (Henry "Fish"), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Earl was a dedicated community member. He and Joanne were delegates to the Democratic National Convention and volunteered their time at the polls for various Democratic candidates. They enjoyed attending CIAA and MEAC basketball tournaments, NASCAR races, and family vacations to ski slopes and beaches. He was a parishioner of Saint Joseph's Catholic Church and Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Earl also brought holiday joy to many by serving as Santa Claus for many years.

Known to many as "Papa Levy," Earl was a constant source of support and encouragement. He was a familiar face at schools serving as a volunteer, watching track meets, soccer tournaments, football games, and other events, always cheering on his family and friends. His motto, "Ride the rails of opportunity and stay on track," inspired countless young people.

While Earl may be gone, his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. He leaves behind a legacy of achievement, dedication, and a love for life that will be deeply missed.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 23, 2024, from the time of 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the C.R.V. Memorial Chapel at Hairston Funeral Home.

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