Joe Baldwin

Joe Baldwin, age 78, passed away March 12, 2023, in Nashville TN. He was born December 23, 1944, in Logan WV. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years Elaine Baldwin, his parents Orville Baldwin, Betty Browning Galit, grandparents Cecil Y and Genevieve Browning, and cherished sister Kay Lambert Anderson.

Joe is survived by his son Joey (Pamela) Baldwin, daughter Melinda Baldwin. Grandchildren Joey Baldwin II, Rachel Baldwin, Calvin Lester II, and Cory Joe Lester.

Joe would joke about his initials spelling out JOB. He was always working, proudly providing for his family.  He was the owner/operator of Baldwin Auto Service and Supply in Matewan WV for years. He had many friends that would hang out at the shop with him.  His grandson Calvin would say the smell of motor oil and cologne always made him think of his Paw Paw. He loved to play the piano. There was always music playing in the Baldwin household. He was a major influence on music for his children and grandchildren. His son Joey is carrying on the musical tradition with his own band in Nashville TN. Joe would teach his grandchildren songs on the piano as soon as they were big enough to reach the piano keys. He was full of pride that his children Joey and Melinda took piano lessons and were in the Matewan High School Band.

Joe loved animals, especially his dogs. During his retirement years with Elaine, he would often sit outside feeding the birds, rabbits, and squirrels. He loved the WV mountains and nature.

He also loved watching the Andy Griffith Show and cartoons with his kids when they were little. However, Joe never outgrew watching cartoons! He had a great sense of humor.

Being a Husband, Father and Grandfather was his greatest joy.  He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

To honor Joe’s wishes, cremation will take place and there will be no funeral service. The family will have a private burial in West Virginia at a later date.