Joseph “Joe” Howell Young, Sr.
March 30, 1950 – February 17, 2025
A memorial service to celebrate Joe's life will be held at The Elk's Lodge, 310 East Preston Avenue, Shreveport, LA, at 2 p.m., March 9, 2025.
Joe Young passed from this life on February 17, 2025, surrounded by his son, Patrick; brother in law, Larry; and close friends. He was born on March 30, 1950, to proud parents, David Adolphus and Nancy Howell Young in Shreveport, LA.
During his years at St. Theresa Elementary School, Joe was known as 'Joey.' As he moved on to Jesuit High School, he earned the nickname 'Mighty Joe' Young. Following in the footsteps of his brother, David, he played tackle on the football team, proudly wearing the number 80 jersey. As a key member of the 1967 State Championship team, he earned All-City and All-District honors, securing a football scholarship to Northeast Louisiana University.
Joe spent much of his career in the freight transportation industry before partnering with his lifelong friend, Raymond Modica, to start a carpet-cleaning business—now carried on by his son, Patrick. To Joe, his customers were more than just clients; they were family.
He perfected the art of the 'crawfish boil', a craft he picked up from his mentor, Judge Henry Politz, which were always well-attended. Joe enjoyed several hobbies through the years, which included riding motorcycles throughout the United States, treasure hunting with a metal detector, beekeeping, and especially playing golf with his many friends.
He also cohabited with exotic animals such as a crocodile, boa constrictors, and raccoons. He was preceded in death by his parents; beloved brother, David; infant brother, Martin Francis; and sisters, Mary Young and Judy Ahearn. He was survived by his three sons, Joseph Howell Young, Jr., Patrick Ryan Young and spouse, Kelsey, and Brian Walsh Young. His greatest joy in life was being 'Papa Joe' to his beloved grandchildren: triplets Ryce, Madeline, and Ryder Young, as well as Connor and Amelia Young. He is also survived by brother, Stephen Young of Tempe, AZ; sister, Cathy Newell of Jackson, MS; and sister, Janey Pettiette and husband, Larry; former wife, Jenny Norwood and husband, Dr. Bill Norwood and mother of his triplet grandchildren, Tammy Tatum.
Special thanks to the several nieces and nephews who came to visit Uncle Joe: Christy Miller, Laura Morales, Trey and Clayton Newell, Emily Davis, Michael Anne Calhoun, Pete Pettiette, Rose Pettiette, and David Pettiette.
The family appreciates the care and comfort extended by friends: Junior Autrey, Danny Glass, Kathryn McKay, Greg Miciotto, and John Pou, Kelsey Young, and The Carpenter House staff.
The Youngs take great comfort knowing Joe is arm-wrestling with St. Peter at the Pearly Gates.