Joseph S. Eadeh

Joseph S. Eadeh of Northville, formerly of Livonia, and longtime resident of Redford, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2024 at the age of 89. He was born on June 20, 1935, in Ramallah, Jordan; the son of Salem and Mudallaleh.  At the age of 12, he, his brother Fred, and their mother followed their father to the United States where Joe went to school and worked in his father’s store. He attended Northwestern High School in Detroit and earned his diploma.   He enlisted in the United States Marine Corp and proudly served his country during the Korean Conflict.   As a Corporal, he was stationed on the USS Kearsarge and  visited many ports in Southeast Asia including the Philippines, Japan, the Korean Peninsula, and the Tachen Islands. Following his honorable discharge, Joe returned to Detroit, fell in love, and was united in marriage to Annette Girard on April 29, 1961.  They purchased their first home, welcomed their son Bradley, and spent 63 years lovingly devoted to each another.

Upon returning from his service, Joseph pursued a career in barbering, attending barber college and quickly establishing himself as "Joe the Barber." He became a fixture in Redford Township, where he was loved by his colleagues and clients alike because of his jovial personality and his willingness to go to client’s homes to cut their hair if they couldn’t get to the shop. After several years of barbering, it was time for Joe to move on and he joined the Redford Union School District, first as a custodian and then as a bus driver, where he earned the affectionate nicknames "Joe the Bus Driver" and "Big Joe." He was loved by all his students from the Kindergarteners to the high schoolers. He eventually became the school district’s mail delivery person and retired from the district in 1997.

Joe enjoyed bowling and was a beloved member of several leagues over the years. He was a member of St. Valentine Church in Redford, where he served as an usher and volunteered often.  He was always ready to lend a hand. As a proud veteran, he later become a member of VFW Post 4012 in Northville.  Joe closely followed all Michigan sports teams but was an especially avid Red Wings and Tigers fan. For over 15 years, he enjoyed serving as the public address announcer for the Catholic Central High School varsity hockey team, a role he cherished at Redford Arena. His greatest pride, however, came from cheering on his son and later his grandson in their various activities.  Joe was always supportive and always there to root for them. His grandson’s guitar playing especially warmed his heart.

Big Joe was a “people person” and had a knack for teasing and joking.  He had a smile for everyone and always had a big hug for anyone who was willing. Later in life, as a beloved resident of Oakmont in Northville, he brought joy and laughter to his fellow residents and staff members alike. A devoted husband, father, uncle, and adoring grandfather, Joe will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Joseph is survived by his loving wife, Annette; his son, Bradley (Kimberly) Eadeh; and his grandson Connor Eadeh.   He is also survived by his brother-in-law Phil Girard; sisters-in-law, Donna Eadeh, Linda Girard, and Margaret Eadeh, several nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.  He also leaves behind dozens of friends and people who loved to be around him.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Fred Eadeh, John Eadeh, and his sister Jeanette Bangs.

A private family service will be held and Joseph will be laid to rest at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in his name to Angela Hospice , 14100 Newburgh Road, Livonia, MI 48154.