Joe Eugene Ethridge

Surrounded by his family, Joe Eugene Ethridge went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on February 13, 2024.

Joe was born in Mills County on January 10, 1942. He graduated with the class of 1960 at Mullin High School with honors as valedictorian and Varsity quarterback.  He married his sweetheart, Wanda Jo Burns, in Goldthwaite Texas, July 28, 1961. Joe loved the outdoors and grew up hunting in Mills County with his extended family.

Joe is proceeded in death by his parents, Earl and Beatrice Ethridge and brother Harley. He is survived by his wife, Wanda, and children, Mitchell (and wife Susan), Mitzi (and husband Michael), and Marisa (husband Tim), grandchildren Matthew, Benjamin, Jonathan, Philip, Rebekah, and Katelyn, three great-grandchildren, and his sister Betty Farmer.

Joe graduated college with a chemistry major, minor in biology, along with a Texas teaching certificate from Southwest Texas State University (now Texas State University). For four years he taught junior high in Temple Independent School District, and coached boy’s athletics.

He obtained employment at Dow Chemical in Freeport, Texas in 1969, which allowed him to raise his family in Jones Creek, Texas.  He was actively involved in his church and community and enjoyed coaching Freeport Little League baseball and playing golf with his many friends and family. He retired from Dow in 1997, where his career saw him acquire patents related to his chemistry expertise, followed by a role as a Certified Purchasing Manager.  

In his retirement, he spent his best days enjoying life on his ranch, Golden Acres, with the love of his life of 62 years, Wanda.  

As a student of the Holy Bible, he diligently studied the scriptures and held steadfast to his faith.   He would want to leave you with this verse: 
      “The Lord will bless you and will keep you. He will make His face shine upon you.   And He will be gracious unto you. He will turn His countenance toward you.  And He will give you shalom (nothing lacking).” Numbers 6: 24-26

To honor his legacy, in lieu of a public memorial or ceremony, please leave a message, prayer or remembrance for Joe Ethridge and his family at this site.   Pray and support Israel and God will bless you.