Joel Franklin King, passed away peacefully on the 30th of May, 2024, at his home in Berrien Springs, MI,
at the age of 91. Joel was born on the 26th of October, 1932, in Hamilton, AL, and travelled to Michigan
for work as a young man.
Joel is survived by his wife of 70 years Daisy Lou King, daughter Debra Fecho, grandchildren Karissa
(Randy Schlipp) Smith, Kelcy (Shannon) Smith, Ashlie (Lee) Wattles, Shaun Adam Mainwaring, Megan
Fecho, greatgrandchildren Kylee, Jaelyn, Kamren, Blakley, Addison, Jackson, Jensen, Layla, Lillian, and a
host of nieces and nephews.
The youngest of seven siblings, Joel was preceded in death by his daughter Beverly Smith, parents
Walter and Mary (Hawkins) King, siblings, Lecil King, Pauline Stidham, Sula Mae Huggins, Marie
McKinney, Willie Chloe King, Nellie Cochran, and Katherine Evans.
Joel's work ethic was unparalleled, as evidenced by his over 45 years of dedicated service at French
Paper Mill, where he worked as a machinist.
A man of the outdoors, he loved fishing, hunting, camping, gardening, splitting wood for the fire place
and tinkering in his garage. He found solace and joy at his cabin near Cadillac, Michigan, where many
memories were made with his grandchildren.
In accordance with Joel’s wishes his family will be remembering him privately.
Those wishing to make a memorial donation in honor of Joel have been asked to consider the American
Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023.
Photos, condolences, and memories can be left for Joel’s family at www.AllredFuneralHome.