Joel LeRoy Waite, born November 26, 1952, in East Liverpool, Ohio died on November 27, 2025 in Sebring, Florida following complications after surgery.  He was the beloved son of Elinor and Paul Waite.

Joel was preceded in death by his parents and sister Sue (Waite) Kutz. 

He is survived by his children Nicole (Tim) Hinds of South Carolina, Brian Waite and Brett (Tina) Waite of Alabama, brother Everett (Paula) Waite of Ohio, sister Debbie Bright of Florida, and 3 grandchildren Ashley Hinds, Morgan Hinds, and Jackson Hinds.

Joel graduated from Southern Local High School in 1971 and immediately enlisted in the United States Army.  He served 20 years in bases here and abroad and honorably retired in 1992.   After retirement, Joel worked at various poultry processing plants in the south, finally retiring in Florida.  Joel was always a dog lover and leaves behind his beloved companion Gumbo.  Joel enjoyed reading, watching mysteries and crime dramas, and eating cookies.  He never met a cookie he didn't like!  

Joel will be laid to rest in Yellow Creek Cemetery in Wellsville, Ohio at a later date.