"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." - II Timothy 4:7

Joseph "Joe" Thomas Mines answered the call to come home by his Lord and Savior during the early hours of May 30, 2024.  He was born on January 24, 1944 to the late William Thomas Mines and Pauline Winston Mines.  He was preceded in death by his older brother, William Thomas Mines.

Joe accepted Christ and was baptized at Ebenezer Baptist Church at an early age by Reverend Ragland.  He loved Ebenezer and displayed this by his service as a Trustee, Usher, a member of the Male Chorus and Mass Choir.  He was a member of the Worship and Activity Committee and assisted on the Board of Christian Education whenever they called.  He was educated in Hanover Public Schools.

Joe was employed by Super Valu (formerly Richfood) as a truck driver and retired in April 2006 after 39 1/2 years of employment.  After retirement from Super Valu, he worked odd jobs with Deacon Thaddeus Jones.  Later, he was employed by H. W. Dabney Funeral Home.  He retired in December 2023 but he remained on call.

Joe's greeting was a cheerful, "Hello! Hello!"  His friendly disposition and genuine interest in others endeared him to all who crossed his path.  He had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel valued and appreciated.  Joe was a kind man.  Always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.  He never hesitated to offer his assistance, often driving friends and family to doctor's appointments.  An avid sports fan, he loved baseball and played with the Montpelier Dodgers in his younger years.  His favorite football team was the Pittsburg Steelers.  He enjoyed playing cards, golfing, and bowling.  He found pleasure in the simple things, like sitting outside and watching the school buses and waving at passersby.  Joe loved clothes and took pride in what he wore and how he wore it.  Always sharp regardless of the occasion.  When asked a question, he never just gave a yes or no response.  When asked his opinion, he answered with "I r'ang you are right", "I don't know", "If that is what they said" or "I ain't got nothing to do with it".  Joe felt vinegar was the solution to all his ailments and encouraged others to use it for their medicinal needs too.  Joe's quiet demeanor and inner strength allowed him to survive life's challenges with grace and dignity.

Joe leaves to cherish his memory, his children, Thomas "Bubba" Gregory Mines (Frances) and Amanda "Pita" Johnson (Joel); grandchildren, Aaron Johnson, Timika and Jamar Mines; great grandchildren, KeiAiza Williams, Kamiyah Kelsey, and Knox Mines; nieces, Paula Austin, Julie, and Sherri Mines; sister-in-law, Marguerite P. Mines; devoted companion Ethel "Sweetheart" Morris; devoted cousin, James "Whistle Pete" Mines, devoted friend, Leona "Bump" Johnson; former wife, Bernice L. Mines, and a host of other family and friends.

His presence brought comfort and joy to those around him, and his absence will be felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.