Joseph "Joe" E. Puckett

Joe Puckett, 91, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Christmas Morning, December 25, 2023. A fitting date, as days to celebrate with family brought Joe so much joy. Joe was born in Sterling, IL, to Mary (Loren) and LaDoit Puckett. He was the youngest of four brothers who pre-deceased him: John (Helen), Robert (Elizabeth), and Richard.

After graduating from Sterling’s Newman High School in 1951, Joe proudly served his country during the Korean War. Upon returning home, he moved to Rockford and established a 40-plus-year career with NCR and met and married the love of his life, Sarah (Rubly) Puckett. Even after 64-years of marriage, Joe’s face would still light up when Sarah walked into a room.

Sarah and Joe, in quick succession, welcomed four children into their world: Edward, Elizabeth (Billy Bole), John (Shelley) and Mary (Rick Shaughnessy). Joe deeply loved his grandchildren, his namesake Joe (Jimena), Finn, and Rae, as well as Brittany, Chase and Vito.

One of Joe’s greatest passions was traveling the country each summer with his family, first in a tent, then a pop-up camper, and, finally, a 1977 GMC motor home, named “Ella.” After they retired, Joe and Sarah would spend weeks in Ella traveling and enjoying life to its fullest. One of his favorite yearly trips was to Hershey, PA, to attend an annual car show and meet. He was an avid antique car enthusiast and was often found in the garage tinkering with his 1946 Packard Custom Clipper and 1941 Skylark Hupmobile.

He loved to read and tell stories. He created entire worlds for his kids packed with adventure. Joe would fill wilderness nights in the pop-up camper with stories of a swash-buckling Count, turned private eye, who solved crimes and mysteries around the globe.

The world is a smaller place for Joe’s family without his enormous heart, kindness, and unconditional love. Joe’s visitation is Friday, January 5, 10:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church with Funeral Mass immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Rockford Rescue Mission.