Joe Lee Richards just called to tell me that it would most likely be the last time we would talk. His lungs have become so weak that the doctors don't expect him to last more than another day or two. He also is having heart failure. I know quite a few members here met Joe at the Arranger Jams in Shreveport. He was the guy who made the videos of them, and he sang, played guitar, and used his Ketron Midjay for music. He was a really good fried of mine and of Hank B. He asked me to tell you how much meeting you and getting to jam with you meant to him. I will probably drive up to Arkansas tomorrow if the doctors will allow me to see him. For many years Joe was known as the "Singing Sheriff". He served as county Sheriff for many terms and was still active in local politics, in fact still serving as City Councilman in Benton, Arkansas. In his younger years he played with many of the top country entertainers in Nashville. I met Joe through the Yahoo Solton Forum, when we realized we were both from Benton, although in different states. He made many trips to Louisiana after that. He and I and Dean Mathis played several 4th of July concerts for "his" Benton. Joe said that he is ready to go on. I hope those of you who pray will include him and his large family. Thanks for letting me share this with you. DonM
I don't know him, but I am well aquainted with daily prayer so I will pray for God's will for him! I hope you get to see your friend again and talk to him. You are a great guy to be friends with, and so many of us will join you in prayer.
Don this is sad new....Joe is a good friend of mine also. We had good times at the jam in Louisiana and always stayed in touch...sorry to hear of his illness... Prayers are in order...say hello for me.
Joe Lee, Donny P, Don M, Jammin in LA. "Another Bridge To Burn"
I never met Joe Lee, but I've met Don and Bill (Semi-Live), and poor departed Hank, so I think I have a feel for the type of person Joe Lee might be as well - the kind of person there are not enough of in the world today ...
Don, I can feel your loss as I lost a great friend and 26 year band member a couple of years ago ... it is really quite devastating ... hopefully you will have the chance to see your friend one more time and tell him what he has meant to you ...
You, Joe Lee, and his family are in our prayers ...
Don, I know what you feel. Three of the best friends I had, one of them since 4 years old, one from about 12 years old and the other a handicap trombone player was like a brother to me all died within 12 months. It was like impossible to me.
Take care go see Joe if possible. I'm thinking of you the boys and Susan now. Love ya man, Boo
Sorry to hear the news about Joe. I have his videos from the arranger jams, brought me to the action when it was impossible to attend. Joe use to shoot me an e-mail every now and then, we shared the same politics. Never met him but would have liked too. As I recall he lost his son a few years ago under some tragic circumstances. Let Joe know he has my prayers.
Yes, Joe's son was murdered by a "friend". She and accomplices have since been arrested and prosecuted. I haven't heard any more from Joe or his daughter. She is supposed to call me back. DonM
I can't tell you how sad this news makes me. I never got to make a single jam in Shreveport but wanted to be there so badly. Joe Lee's photos helped me understand what I had missed... and enjoy vicariously the many folks I had wanted to meet and greet, you included my friend. My prayers for Joe are "on their way" and if you do get to see him give him our best. Drive carefully and let us know how it went if you are able to see him.
I talked to Joe's daughter last night. He is moving into a Hospice today. They are trying to keep him comfortable. His phone is not working right now, but should be again Monday night. I'm still trying to find out if it is wise to visit him, but I will know more tomorrow. DonM
When a really good friend of ours passed, we were talking to his son about how much his wife was going to miss him ... the son said "That's the price of a good marriage" ... the same goes for friendships ...
Joe's daughter has told me that the doctor is saying only a few more days at most. They really didn't expect him to make it through last night, but he did. He has some periods when he recognizes people, but they are increasingly fewer. Joe told me that he is ready when the time comes. DonM
So sorry to ohear it Don, ... it is helpful to know that he has accepted it and is ready for it ... I pray that I would have that strength when the time comes ...
Our prayers are with you and his family and friends ...
Thanks Don. I enjoyed reading about Joe Lee's life, some of which I was already aware of from talking with both you and him over these many years. He was a pretty incredible individual and will be missed by everyone he touched.
