Robert Bernard Joell

Robert Bernard Joell, 92, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at his home. Born in Philadelphia, PA on January 10, 1932, to the late Walter Sinclair Joell and the late Beatrice Rose Gravatt Joell, Robert’s strength and spirit were an inspiration to all who knew him. 

Robert served in the United States Air Force for four years, stationed at Craig Air Force Base in Selma, Alabama. Robert worked for Bell Atlantic of PA (Verizon) as an engineer for thirty-two years until his retirement.

In 1955 Robert married the love of his life, Williett McFadden. From their marriage they had three children, Deborah, Danita, and Robert. They dedicated their lives to raising their children with love, guiding them with wisdom. They took pride in seeing their children succeed in life. They traveled extensively together, creating memories from the Caribbean islands to the Rocky Mountains and to Canada.

In his spare time, he enjoyed outdoor sports such as skiing and golf. An avid sports fan, he enjoyed cheering on his Philadelphia sports teams, the Eagles, Phillies, and 76ers.

Robert played musical instruments including the keyboard and guitar. He enjoyed carpentry, creating cabinets, bookshelves, and picture frames. Robert was fond of challenges such as jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles, and other complex word games.

Robert showed his love of family by hosting reunions through the years to bring family and friends together. He dedicated years to researching his family ancestry, seeking to know more of his family origins.

Robert’s faith was important to him, he was most recently a member of Lakes Church in Lakeland, FL where he regularly attended services and Sunday Bible Studies. He studied his Bible habitually and volunteered in the church’s media center.

Robert is survived by his loving wife of 68 years Williett McFadden Joell, children Deborah Bullock (Robert), Danita Joell, and Robert Joell (Arleen), five grandchildren Lindsay Freeman (Michael), Lauren Satchell (Preston), Sean Bullock, Mark Bullock, Laura Bundy (Robert) and three great grandchildren, Phoebe Satchell, Daphne Rose Satchell and Harper Olivia Bundy.

Robert was predeceased by four brothers and sisters, Beatrice, Walter, Harold and Catherine.

A celebration of life will be held at Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel at 3315 Silas Creek Parkway Winston-Salem, NC on Saturday, August 17th at 3 p.m. for the viewing and 4 p.m. for the service. 

Condolences may be made to the family at www.hayworth-miller.com