Joseph Thomas Curry

Joe Curry (“J.T.”), age 86 of Renton, Washington died peacefully on June 10, 2016 surrounded by his loving family.

Joe is survived by his wife of 53 years, Joy, his three children, Denise Ramsey (Scott), Steven Curry (Annie) and Jason Curry (Danielle), along with eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Loretta Curry and his younger brother, William.

From 1944-1948, Joe became a household name in Renton as the All-State running back for Renton’s high powered football team. Nicknamed the “Hummingbird” by local sports writers for his amazing ability to defy his opponents with speed and agility, Joe was the featured attraction at overcrowded Friday night games held at Liberty Park. The crowds generated during this era created the impetus for constructing the modern Renton Memorial Football Stadium. He later attended San Jose State College pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice.

His love of the outdoors led to a decade of work in Alaska including building roads on Mount McKinley, and commercial fishing. An avid fisherman, he taught all of us to fish, and he was never short on the latest information or stories about where to find the next “lunker!” People who knew Joe not only enjoyed his sincere and loyal friendship, but also his great sense of humor, quick wit, fun nicknames, endearing smile and true sense of caring for everyone. He was also a great cook and had a passion for making the perfect turkey or a fabulous chili. Joe especially enjoyed gardening and growing great tomatoes.

The man truly did not have a judgmental, rude, jealous, or mean bone in his entire body. He was our Papa, our Jose Baba, and the foundation of a very close family who adored him and will miss him forever.

In accordance with his wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held later this summer.