Joseph William Stone Jr.

Joseph W. Stone Jr., affectionately known as “Joe” or “Otis,” passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, October 2, 2025, in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. He was 65 years old.

Born on June 9, 1960, to Joseph Stone Sr. and Barbara Stone, Joe spent his life rooted in the city he loved, surrounded by family, friends, and a strong sense of community.

A devoted son, brother, uncle, and grandpa, Joe was known for his no-frills, no-filter, no-fluff personality—authentic to the core. He brought that same honest approach to his work as a longtime cook at Old Leonhardt’s Restaurant and the Old Fitzgerald Distillery, where his talent in the kitchen and his straightforward demeanor made him a memorable presence to all who worked with him.

Joe had a deep love for travel and adventure. He especially cherished trips to Florida and the vibrant celebrations of Mardi Gras, often accompanied by good friends and great stories. Wherever he went, he brought a sense of humor, a seasoned perspective, and an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

At home, Joe was lovingly known as the "Mayor" of his street. He could often be found on his front porch, keeping an eye on the neighborhood, sharing a laugh, or offering advice with a dose of realness only he could deliver. A true old soul, he loved cooking for loved ones, spending time at the fair, catching a good concert, and visiting his beloved mother every day—a testament to the strength of his family ties.

Joe will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His presence was larger than life, and his legacy will live on in the stories told, the meals shared, and the love he gave so freely.

Rest easy, Joe. You’ve earned your seat on the porch in the sky.

Joe is preceded in death by his father, Joseph W. Stone Sr.; brother, Robert Franklin Stone; uncle, Thomas Lynch; and grandmother, Jean Lynch

Left to cherish his memory, Joe is survived by his mother, Barbara Lynch Stone; 2 sons, Robert William Stone and Daniel Ringo; 2 grandchildren, Destin and Tristan Stone-Thomas; 3 great-grandchildren, Ann Marie, Ivory, and Ellitt; 4 siblings, Babsra Stone, Timothy Stone, Shanna Vowell (Robert O.), and Milaina Preston (Phillip); niece, Madeline Preston; 3 nephews, Alex, Connor, and Cooper; neighbor, Wesley; and a host of close friends.

A funeral service for Mr. Joe Stone Jr. will be held at 6 PM on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Louisville Memorial Gardens West Funeral Home, 4400 Dixie Highway, Louisville, Kentucky. Visitation will be held from 2 PM to 6 PM at the funeral home, prior to the service.

The family would like to thank all the doctors and nurses that went above and beyond to try and save Joe at St. Mary's and Jewish CCU.