Mr. William Josephus Tribett

“Joe” William Josephus Tribett died Saturday, December 30, 2023 at the Advent Health Hospital in Apopka. He was 80 years old.

Joe was born in Mount Airy, Maryland. He was the son of the late, Herbert Cornelius Tribett and Lillian Leekle Archer Leek. He graduated from Bellaire High School in Bellaire, Ohio, and shortly after enlisted in the United States Navy. He completed U.S. Naval Hospital Corps School in 1962 and served six years as a naval corpsman, three of them overseas. Joe received the National Defense Service Medal and the First Good Conduct Award. 

After leaving the Navy, he went to work as a carwash distributor and continued his passion for music and entertainment, playing in multiple bands over the years. He married his eternal companion, Leanne Guimond, in March 1981, and they were later sealed for all time and eternity.

Joe was active in his community and loved to play music for different events. He had a strong passion for motorcycles, music, and family. He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and never missed an opportunity to share his testimony with anyone who would listen. He had a sparkling personality and loved a good joke and a strong belly laugh. He was a passionate member of a 12 step program for over 41 years, encouraging others to follow his example. He brought much comfort, joy, and encouragement to those who came in contact with him, never missed an opportunity to serve, and would gladly pick up the phone to lend a listening ear to all in need. He had a zest for life and encouraged everyone to live in the present and not the wreckage of the future. If you had a problem, he could fix it with WD40, zip ties, bungee cords, or mayonnaise. 

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Leanne “Lee” Marie Tribett; his sons and their spouses Jascha (LeAnn) Tribett, Seth (Tina) Tribett, Joe (Celeste) Tribett, Jr., John Tribett; his daughter, Charlevoix (Jeremy) Murphy; and his sister, Gwen Klein. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. 

Joe was welcomed with open arms into paradise by his mother Lillian Leek, father Herbert Tribett, step-father Vernon Leek, brothers John, Vernon “Buddy”, Ernie, and Clifford “Bunky” Tribett, and sister Janet Keenan. 

Friends and family are invited to a service that will be held on Friday, January 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints on 610 Martin St, Apopka, Florida, 32712. 

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked to make a donation to the local VFW or charity of your choice.