Joseph Aloysius Hands, Jr.
Born February 27, 1933 in Eldorado, Arkansas. He was the son of the late Joseph A. Hands, Sr. and Erma E. Hands. Joe graduated from St. Johns High School and attended Duke University on a full football scholarship. From Duke he joined the United States Marine Corp during the Korea war era where he also played football. After serving in the USMC he worked in the elevator union (Local 10) in the D.C. Metropolitan area. He joined the Washington Redskins as a free agent in 1960. He later moved to Cobb Island, Maryland which would always be home. The love of hunting, fishing, crabbing, football, and most importantly the love of his family and friends were included in every day of his life. His journey here ended on August 20, 2013. He passed peacefully at his home overlooking the Potomac River on Cobb Island, Maryland. “God’s Country” he called it.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Erma Hands, sister, Patricia Hands Berto, and wife Gayle Hands.
He is survived by his first wife, Patricia Bray, daughters Catherine Reynolds and husband Rick, Karen Taylor and husband Wayne, Patricia Deering, Stephanie Haynes and husband Ronnie, Donna Hands and partner Meagan, sons, Douglas and wife Tammy, and Joseph and wife Charisse. His special friend Betty Baitler and “adopted” son Dinky Stine.
Joe had 16 grandchildren that he adored and loved spending time with. He also became great grandfather for the second time on August 6, 2013.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Cobb Island Volunteer Fire Department.
Services will be private.