Joseph Shoulders

Joseph Shoulders, a proud and resilient individual, who embodied the essence of hard work and commitment, departed this life and transitioned to eternity on July 11, 2024, at Crystal Care Center. Born on May 9, 1935, in Athens, AL, to the late John and Idell Shoulders. He was a distinguished alumnus of Trinity High School, the pioneering black high school in his hometown. Joseph went onto serve his country in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1957, exhibiting his unwavering dedication to duty. Following his honorable service, he joined General Motors as a skilled tradesman, dedicating three decades to the auto manufacturing industry while embarking on his entrepreneurial journey as the owner of the beloved Mr. Pigs BBQ restaurant in Mansfield, OH. His entrepreneurial spirit paved the way for him to venture into property ownership and renovations. One of his first tenants was Senator Sherrod Brown when he finished college. Joseph's love for farming and agriculture led him back to his roots in Athens, AL, where he flourished as a successful Cattleman and Farmer, a journey that brought him immense joy. A devout member of Little Elk Missionary Baptist Church, Joseph's faith was unwavering, and he served as a Deacon, touching numerous lives with his kindness and wisdom. His passion for sports, especially the Cleveland Browns,Cleveland Cavaliers, and The Ohio State Buckeyes, was infectious, bringing joy to those around him. On Thursday July 11, 2024 Joseph was greeted at the Pearly Gates by his parents, loving wife of 63 years Mrs. Ruby Shoulders, and siblings, Leo Shoulders, Mary Sanderfer, John Shoulders, and Dorothy Owens Joseph's legacy lives on in the hearts of his family, including his daughter, L'Tanya Dandy, grandchildren, Earl, Erika and Erik Dandy; siblings, Nancy Ann Sanderfer and M. Jean Luckie, 9 great-grandchildren, JaMarius, Darius and Jaelyn Jones,De'Quovi, and Jah'Kaylah Pigott and DaLayah, Myles, Micah and Mya Dandy and 3 great-great-grandchildren who all affectionately called him Pa Joe and all of whom he cherished dearly. numerous nieces and nephews, including his special nephew and caregiver Roy Shoulders and his wife Kristie Shoulders. Joseph's life and legacy, will be celebrated with Visitation at 10:00am and Funeral 11:00am Tuesday July 16, 2024 at Marlan J. Gary Funeral Home, The Chapel of Peace Mansfield 753 McPherson St. (formerly Williams Funeral Services). His nephew, Pastor Link Briggs Sr., Mt. Hermon Baptist Church, Eulogist. Joseph will be laid to rest next to his wife Ruby at Mansfield Memorial Park. A special thanks to the staff at Crystal Care Center, especially Nurses' Bob and Angie. As Joseph Shoulders journeys into eternity, let us celebrate his life, his spirit, and his enduring legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. May he rest in peace. To order flowers and to offer condolences to The SHOULDERS Family, visit www.TheChapelofPeace.com