Joe Devers

Joe Douglas Devers peacefully received his angel wings on September 7, 2017, at his home in Smyrna, Tennessee with his family by his side. Left to carry Joe's spirit is his wife Patsy of 44 years; his children, Whitney Devers and Ann Smith (Scott); his two grandchildren, Isabella and Victoria; his sister and two brothers, Katherine Wilson, Bob Devers, and Norman Devers and many nieces, nephews, friends and other family members too numerous to count.

From his birth until his death, Joe's main priority was taking care of his family and helping others, and this was evidenced by extending the life of his youngest daughter by giving her a kidney. He would literally give anyone the shirt off of his back. He never met a stranger, and people instantly fell in love with his zest for life and contagious, charismatic personality. He was always consistent in character, generosity, and humor. He had a quick wit, enjoyed telling a good joke, loved a good laugh, and was dedicated to his family and community.

Joe was born and raised in Frankfort Kentucky to the late Robert and Geneva Devers. He entertained many of his classmates with his stellar performances playing guitar with his high school band, the Wee Juns. He later enlisted in the Army and fought for our country in Vietnam. Joe continued this service by joining the Kentucky Army National Guard and became an accomplished Helicopter Crew Chief. His love for Huey's and Black Hawks ran deep. Joe retired from the Kentucky Army National Guard in 2002. Thanks to his 20 plus year career as a bus driver for the Franklin County School System, he literally knew everyone in and around town, and the children he cared for year over year will joyfully express their abundance of love for Joe. He was a true jack of all trades demonstrated by his many talents which included musician, quartet singer, handyman, gardener, whistler extraordinaire, Santa substitute when the jolly old elf needed a stand in, teacher/trainer, truck driver, dancer (famous for doing the funky chicken), excellent swimmer, fisherman, and the list goes on and on.

In his 67 years, Joe made deep, enduring friendships that he cherished until the very end. While we are most saddened by his loss, we are also relieved that Joe will no longer suffer and be welcomed by the friends and loved ones who preceded his death.

A Celebration of Joe's life will be held at Harrod Brothers Funeral Home, 312 Washington Street, Frankfort, Kentucky, on Thursday, September 14, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens, 3250 Versailles Road, Frankfort, Kentucky. Visitation will be held at Harrod Brothers Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 13, 2017, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Pallbearers will be Bob Devers, Norman Devers, Scott Smith, Rob Devers, Herbert Monroe, Matthew Devers.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Whitney Devers, Mike Wilson, Don Wilson, Eddie Devers, Lisa Smither, Mark Newby, Sharon Newby, Richard "Pedro" Upchurch, Zak Michon, and Jareb Vogt.

Joe's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the hospice staff and caregivers, April, Carrie, and Kathy, for their loving care, attentiveness and keeping him comfortable right to the very end. Thanks to Dr. Birchmore and Dr. Bunce for their excellent care as well.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to a charity of your choice to help hurricane victims.