Samuel James Joel

Samuel James Joel quietly slipped into his eternal rest on Sunday, September 8, 2024 at Sentara Careplex Hospital.  He was born on May 6, 1932 in Lakeland, Florida; however, he spent the majority of his life in Newport News and Hampton, VA.  He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Ellen Joel; his daughter, Joanne Joel Baker and his infant son, Samuel James Joel.

Samuel graduated from William A Rochelle High School in Lakeland, Florida in 1950.

Shortly thereafter, he honorably served his country by serving six years in the United States Army during the Korean War era. He was honored with the United Nations Service Metal, National Defense Service Metal, Merit Unit Emblem, Expert Driver Badge (Carbine), Korean Service Metal, Good Conduct Metal, and the ROK President Unit Citation, which is the highest unit honor the President can bestow on a military unit.

In the mid 1960’s, Samuel started his career at the City of Hampton in the Mosquito Control Department.  He was a foreman and retired after 20 years of service.

Samuel was a member of Union Baptist Church in Newport News, VA where he served as a member of the Usher Board.  Years later, Samuel and his wife became members of Cornerstone Worship Center and have been there for 30 plus years. He served in the Men’s Ministry, Usher Board, and Golden Eagles Ministry.  He was the eldest member of Cornerstone Worship Center.

Samuel leaves to cherish a legacy of love, strength and precious memory, his devoted wife of 66 years, Hattie Joel; children, Irma Robinson (Houston), Gail Lambert, Terri Joel, Connie Joel, and William Joel; son-in-law, Mark Baker; grandchildren, Alphonso Robinson(Carolyn), Damon Robinson, ShaRhonda Holloway, Larry Lambert Jr., Casey Lambert, Jimmie Tre’ Wideman III, Chante’ Baker, Joshua Baker, JahMar Joel (Britteny), Teaven Freelon; great-grandchildren; Jimiyah Burrell, Keyona Burrell, Jimmie Burrell, Jordan Lambert, Jia Reid, Braylon Joel and Bryson Joel; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

We are thankful to God for having shared Samuel for so many years. He was a loving son, husband, father, a kind neighbor, and a “true friend.” His kind, quiet, humble, and peace-loving spirit will be missed and cherished.  Throughout his life he helped so many people asking little in return. His life reflects the scripture that reads: “Let us not love in words, neither in tongue; but in deed and in     truth.” 1 John 3:18.

His faith and belief in God gave him strength to finish his course.  We will miss him; however, we are confident to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.

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