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Joseph Charles Symonds was born September 14, 1971 in Norwich, New York to Ruth Alger Davis and Martin Symonds. Many knew him by “Joe” or “Big Papa,” but all knew him for his affectionate personality. Joe seemed to never meet a stranger and enjoyed spending time with others. Joe had previously driven trucks for a living and would often bring home stories of the places and views he saw during his long haul journeys. He later changed careers from long haul trucking to local trucking once his health began fading. He was a devoted Florida Gators Football fan and enjoyed watching them play on any crisp fall day. In his spare time, Joe enjoyed fishing and music. He traveled with “Stroking Dixie,” helping them set the stage, promoting their music, and sitting back watching the show. His greatest joys were his daughters and granddaughter whom he loved dearly.
On Thursday, May 10, 2018, Joseph Charles Symonds, 46, of Smiths Station, Alabama passed away at his home after a long health battle. He is preceded in death by his grandparents and step-father, Dale Davis.
Survivors include his mother, Ruth Davis of Smiths Station, Alabama; father, Martin (Janet) Symonds of Sherburne, New York; daughters, Amanda (Thomas) Hill of Columbus, Georgia and Joanna Symonds of Columbus, Georgia; granddaughter, Abagail Hill of Columbus, Georgia; siblings, Philip (Julie) Symonds of Smiths Station, Alabama, Virginia (David) Wescott of Richmond, Virginia, Michael (Danielle) Edwards of Sherburne, New York, and Henry Edwards of Phoenix, Arizona; wife, Genny Symonds of Waco, Texas; step-children, Stephanie Dunigan of Phenix City, Alabama, Misty Howard of Dansville, New York, Robert Howard of Waco, Texas and their children; nieces and nephews, Tyler Symonds of Smiths Station, Alabama and Sarah and Holly Wescott of Richmond, Virginia; and a host of extended family and close friends.
A Memorial Service will be held Thursday May 17th, 11:00 AM EST at Beaver Creek Baptist Church 891 Lee Road 197, Phenix City, Alabama.
In lieu of flowers (should friends’ desire), contributions may be made to the family to help offset the cost of funeral expenses.
The Symonds Family is being assisted by Georgia Cremation, 7500 Veterans Parkway, Suite A, Columbus, Georgia 31909, 706-577-0055, www.georgiacremation.com. The Family invites you to leave a condolence or share a fond memory below.
Rebecca Jarrett Tucker says
Please accept our heartfelt condolences, words cannot begin to express the sadness you are feeling right now, but we are here for you and we are praying for you to get through this. God bless you and may the soul of your brother Joey rest in the everlasting peace of Christ Almighty. Joey was an amazing person and he will always be in our hearts.
Shari says
Know that we are praying for you and your family during this difficult time. Marty and Shari Holley
Tammy says
Big Papa was such a great friend he always had a smile and treated me like family we have been talking the last 3 years and I will miss him RIP big papa I will see you in heaven I love yiu
Tammy says
Big Papa was such a great friend he always had a smile and treated me like family we have been talking the last 3 years and I will miss him RIP big papa I will see you in heaven I love you.
Brian cow says
My heart is with all of y’all my deepest condolences
Mike Miller says
We were saddened when we learned of Joe’s passing. It seems such a short time ago when he and Phil were young boys in our church at Macon Road. Ruth, I know this has been a traumatic year for you but we also know of your strong faith and dependence on our Lord and Savior. May He sustain you and the family through your bereavement of your beloved Joe.
Clarrissa Dye-Garrigus says
I met joe at the ripe age of 16 at church. He was always a sweet and caring friend. His words were always encouraging and loving. His laugh was infectious and he always had the best listening ear for those who were going through tough stuff. I just learned of his passing and my heart is broken for all that loved him, especially his girls. Rest In Heaven my friend.
Chuck Odum says
Condolences and prayers for the family. I pray you feel the Lord’s closeness like never before. He is close to the brokenhearted.
~ Psalm 34:18