Submitted by his wife
Joseph Scott Northup‚ Sr.‚ 49‚ died in the line of duty from a heart attack on April 1st‚ 2004. He is sorely missed by his wife‚ Taunya‚ and two sons‚ Devon and Joseph‚ II. His fellow fireman brothers and the Jessamine County community has lost a brave comrade who was dear to their hearts.
Besides working as a self-employed painting contractor‚ Joe owned a private investigation business. Joe was from 1980 to 1986 a Jessamine County Rescue Squad EMT. From 1988 until his death‚ he was a Disaster and Emergency Services Assistant Director. He was a volunteer fireman for the Jessamine County Fire District from 1993 until his death in 2004. From 1995 to 1998‚ he was an appointed Deputy Coroner. He was then elected Coroner of Jessamine County and served from 1999 through 2002.
He had received an Advanced Kentucky Coroner’s Certificate‚ a State Fire Marshall Certificate of Valor‚ a Nicholasville Key to the City and numerous awards for community service. He was also a Kentucky Colonel and a Kentucky Admiral. He enjoyed giving back to the community that he called ‘Home.’ Every year he would distribute toys to needy children and food baskets to families‚ but he did not limit this to Christmas-time – community service was Joe’s calling every day of his life.
Perhaps the most prestigious honor he received was the friendships he acquired. Joe knew no enemies and held no grudges. He was a friend to all. His absence leaves a void that will never be filled…
I learned so much from Joe in the many years I knew him. Things just aren’t the same without him. He watched out for us all and I know that he still does from his Heavenly home. I miss you, my friend. Did you ever know that you’re my hero? Yeah, you knew….Thanks Taunya and family for YOUR sacrifices through the years. I’m here for you always.
– Melody HoustonJoe was my oldest brother and was taken away from us all way too soon. I am still amazed at the enormity of his outreaching and his heart – I witnessed how powerful an influence he was while attending the services in Kentucky over a year ago – simply amazing! I still have his cell phone number written on my white board in the kitchen – that was the last time I talked to him – on March 28th 2004 – and I will never erase that number no matter what. We love you kiddo – save a spot for us all when we get there!
– Liz FeitelbergI knew Joe Northup for a long time and he died 4 years after my husband did. There is no one like Joe, miss Joe and love him also from his friend Alice Tate.
– Alice tate