Thomas E. Joseph, age 87, died on Thursday, May 24, 2018 at 2:20 p.m. at Lima Memorial Health System.

          He was born on February 4, 1931 in Lima, Ohio to the late Cloyd and Edna (Cook) Joseph.  On February 17, 1951 Thomas married Roberta J. Hawk and she preceded him in death on November 15, 2015.

          Thomas retired in 1988 after working for 31 years as a machine operator for the Ford Motor Company, Lima Engine Plant.  Thomas was a 1949 graduate of LaFayette-Jackson High School.  He was a U.S. Navy veteran.  Thomas enjoyed thrift store hunting and collecting, reading and always had a story to tell.  He loved spending time with his family and friends.       

          Thomas is survived by two sons: James (Amy) Joseph of Lima and Kevin (Teresa) Joseph of Harrod; two daughters: Kay (Dorvil) Patton of Harrod and Kelly (Scott) Deardurff of Munford, AL; nine grandchildren: Bailey Joseph, Atlanta Joseph, Chelsea Joseph, Haley Joseph, Ryan Coates, Mandy Patton, Monica Patton, Jesse Patton and David Fryling; two great grandchildren: Charlie and Henry; and a brother, Alan Joseph of LaFayette.

          He was preceded in death by a daughter, Vickie Joseph; and three brothers: Vernon Joseph, Roger Joseph and Dale Joseph.

          Memorial services will begin at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 29, at the Congregational Christian Church, 205 W. Main Street, LaFayette, Ohio 45854 with Pastor Charles Moeller officiating.

          Friends may call one hour prior to the service on Tuesday, May 29, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Congregational Christian Church, LaFayette. 

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Congregational Christian Church, 205 W. Main Street, LaFayette, Ohio 45854.