Joe Warren Friend, Jr died peacefully at the Crockett County Care Center on December 10, 2023 with his loving wife beside him. Joe Warren was born to Joe and Dorothy Friend on February 2, 1942. Preceding him in death were his parents, nephew Shawn McMullan, several aunts, cousins, and many dear friends.
Joe graduated in 1960 from Ozona High School. He was active in sports, band, and choir. He was best known for his beautiful singing voice. He played the piano and guitar. He carried his guitar everywhere always ready to strum a tune and sing.
After graduation from high school, Joe attended Texas Tech University with a degree in Spanish. He taught 8th grade Spanish in San Angelo, TX for a few years before attending the University of Houston Law School, where he earned his J.D. Joe moved to McAllen, TX with his family. Joe practiced law for 40 years in McAllen. He was a kind and generous man who loved to help others regardless of their inability to pay. He served his community with pride. He was an active member of St John’s Episcopal Church in McAllen serving as a lay reader. He was president of the school board and was responsible for building several schools in McAllen. He retired in 2004.
In 2015 Joe Warren moved back to his beloved Ozona and the OT ranch. He got remarried to his precious wife Katie McAuliffe on the front lawn of his mother’s ranch house. They spent 18 ½ years happy together.
Joe never met a stranger. He always had a smile on his face. He loved animals. Growing up on the ranch the family dog was Tom Dooley. Currently his best friend Howie. They had a unique and loving relationship. Howie will miss him terribly.
Joe was a special man. He was dedicated to AA and maintained his sobriety for 42 years. He helped many people get sober and stay sober thru the AA program.
He is survived by his wife Katie, stepson Robert N. Chavez, his sister Glenda McMullan (Kenny), niece Mecca McMullan (who he loved with all his heart), his four children: Trip (Aimee), Fontaine Dearth (Robert), Whit (Renee), and Phaedra Friend, 7 grandchildren (whom he adored): Olivia, Chloe, Luke, Max, Trip, Genna, and Willow.
My deep gratitude goes to Crockett County Care Center for their tender loving care of Joe. To Interim Hospice for their excellent care and support.
The graveside services were conducted by Reverand Susan Burnham at Cedar Hill Cemetery, Wednesday December 13, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. Viewing was held Tuesday at Preddy Funeral Home. Arrangements by Preddy Funeral Home
Pallbearers will be Rick Mohler, Mark Monroe, Case Monroe, Hunter Monroe, Todd Jones, and Kevin Stykes. Honorary pallbearers will be his best buddies for 40 years “Campo Amigos”.
