10/25/2026
Joe Lavenue, 86, of Ridgely, died Saturday, October 24, 2026, at West Tennessee Healthcare Dyersburg. He was born February 21, 1940, to the late Harry and Louise Taylor Lavenue.
Joe was a devoted member of Broadmoor Church of Christ and an active and cherished member of the Ridgely Senior Citizens. A 1958 graduate of Ridgely High School, Joe went on to graduate from pharmacy school in Memphis in 1963, earning his Doctor of Pharmacy degree. He dedicated his professional life to serving others. His career began as the owner of Alamo Rexall Drugs, followed by his time at Tiptonville Drugs, and finally as the owner of Taylor Brothers Pharmacy in Ridgely. Joe was much more than a pharmacist to those he served. In the days when personal service meant so much, he often delivered prescriptions to the homes of those who were unable to get to the pharmacy, always willing to go the extra mile to help someone in need. His kindness and genuine concern for others made a lasting impression on his community.
Joe proudly served his country in the United States Army National Guard. He also devoted many years to serving as a Boy Scoutmaster, guiding, mentoring, and positively influencing the lives of countless young men. In addition, he served his community as a volunteer firefighter, generously giving his time to help protect and care for his neighbors. Throughout his life, Joe demonstrated a genuine commitment to helping others and making a difference in the lives of those around him.
He found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, and tending to his garden. An avid outdoorsman, Joe also spent many years training hunting dogs, a pastime that brought him great enjoyment. Above all, Joe was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather who treasured his family. His greatest legacy will be the love he shared with them and the countless lives he touched through his kindness, generosity, and service to others. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and the community he so faithfully served.
He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Linda Lavenue; his daughter, Lee Davis (Brian) of Jackson; three sons, Lionel Lavenue (Teresa) of Oakton, VA, Shane Gregory (Kristin) of Millersville, MO, Macky Wilson (Sandy) of Tiptonville; his sister, Harriett Lavenue of Germantown; two brothers, Owen Lavenue (Judy) of Bemis, Jim Lavenue (Susie) of Alamo; and nine grandchildren, Brilee Davis, Emily Wilson, Jaxon Gregory, Nolan Gregory, James Wilson, John Wilson, Cade Gregory, Liam Gregory, River Gregory, Joe Pitts, Brooklyn Pitts; and two great-grandchildren, Kinsley Dover and Grayson Dover.
Memorial services will be announced at a later date.
His family requests memorials be directed to the Ridgely Senior Citizens.
Cremation services are under the direction of Curry Funeral Home. We are privileged and honored to serve the family of Joe Lavenue. You may share your condolences and your memories with the family at www.curryfuneral.com.