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Joseph Marion Osteen, 82, of Lilburn, passed away on March 14, 2025. Joe was born on July 17, 1942, in Anderson, SC to Harry and Verna Osteen. If you knew Joe, you knew that he and his brother Monty were practically inseparable – whether they were out on the ballfield or hanging out on the water, they were always up to something. In the ‘50s, their musical talents took them around the world, performing for the USO and making lifelong memories along the way.
Joe attended the University of South Carolina, where he earned a degree in English. He quickly realized that teaching wasn’t quite his calling, so he shifted gears and found his groove in retail management. His career took him to places like Hot Springs, AR, where a blind date led him to Paula. He knew right away she was the one, and within six months, they were married.
Joe and Paula’s adventures didn’t stop there. They moved a dozen times, collecting great friends and even better stories. They finally settled in Gwinnett County, GA to raise their two daughters, Cassie and Mandy. The weekends were filled with tennis, golf, trips and a lot of laughter, all shared with friends who became family. Joe’s quick wit and sense of humor made him a joy to be around, and he could always be counted on for a good laugh- sometimes at his own expense.
As a husband, Joe was absolutely devoted for 57 years. He and Paula were the definition of partnership, showing us all what true love and companionship really look like. He was also a proud and loving father and grandfather offering wisdom, strength, and humor through life’s ups and downs.
Joe may be gone, but he will forever live in the hearts of his loving wife, Paula Osteen; his daughters, Cassie Little and Mandy Osteen, along with their fiancés, Doni O’Bryan and Matt Farmer; his cherished grandsons, Mason and Chase Little; and his brother, Monty Osteen, and his family—Molly, Greg, Drayton, Molly, and Beatty. And of course, anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him will always remember him with a smile and a laugh.
To honor Joe, we will be having a celebration of life the afternoon of April 19 in Cumming, GA. More details to follow.
Georgia Cremation in Duluth assisted the family with arrangements.
Larry Polk says
Paula, I didn’t know Joe, but ready about his family I can tell he was a special husband and father. We have lifted you up in prayer. We love you, Larry and Jean Polk.
Liz Wilson says
Paula, I’m so very sorry for the loss of your husband. Sounds like he was one great man! You and your family are in our thoughts & prayers.
Cecilia Underwood says
Paula Russ and I are so sorry to hear about Joe we are thinking of you.
Terry Gross says
We love and miss you Joe O. Prayers to all Paula and kids. Till we meet again..🙏❤️Terry
Vincent Bigley says
I am truly sorry for your loss.
He always had a smile on his face.
I live in Dallas ga. Now . I miss y’all. If I get up that way Paula, I will
Come by the house.
From Vinny
Shelly says
We met Joe and Pauld when they lived in San Angelo. We made friends instantly. From that time we never slowed down, and was always coming up with crazy things to do. We went bowling one night and won the big pot and the whole group were ready to kick our butt’s! Joe got everybody settled down and we all left peacefully with all their money. What a fun and scary night. I thought we were all in trouble! I have so many stories, I could go on forever. Joe was always smiling and coming up with something else crazy we could do. He was my hero and when I get to Heaven. The first person I am going to find, that is right after iI meet GOD!
Tommy Polk says
JOE was someone I immediately liked.
He was wonderful person who will be missed by all who knew him.
.
Jo Ellen Osteen says
I will always remember Joe just as he looks in this picture, with that smile! A good man gone too soon. My heartfelt sympathy.
Mike Pearch says
I’m so sorry to hear about Joe’s passing. Paula, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your entire family. No doubt he is in a better place now. RIP Joe.
Mary Mills says
This is such a loss. I loved being around Joe! Whenever we had reunion lunches, I wanted to be standing beside or near Joe. It’s just as the description says, he always had a smile and a witty comment. His humorous take on any situation was a delight to be around. What a blessing he was to have in our family. I love Paula also.
Betty Smith says
I first met Joe and Paula when Joe and I worked at the first K-Mart built in Abilene Texas. I started 2 weeks before it opened. Eventually I met Paula and they met my husband. We just hit it off and become friends.They both played golf and we had never played. They are the reason I feel in love with golf. Years later when we all lived different places we started meeting once a year and shared vacation together. So many fun memories! Just being with Paula and Joe meant you would have fun. Years later my husband and I divorced and they lived in Georgia. Thank God they remained precious friends with me.I visited them a few times but we managed to stay close no matter how long we went without seeing each other.I remember how much Joe loved Paula.He was just a good genuine person and had that great smile. His voice would stay so calm no matter how crazy me and Paula got. I will always cherish all the memories and be thankful for these two precious friends. The girls are precious too. RIP Joe You we’re loved by many💕
Elaine Jones says
Sounds like an incredible man, husband, and father. Sorry I never got to meet him. My heart goes out to you Paula and your children. Prayers and peace be with you all. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻👏
Debbie Gross says
We’re all better for knowing Joe. Such a witty and fun guy, great father and husband.
I can hear him now “ Come on Pebs.. we’re going to the Rattlesnake Roundup.. it’ll be fun “Snakes!!! fun? He was right, we saw thousands of snakes and ate fried rattlesnake. Anywhere with Joe was always special.