757.628.1000

Joseph Wesley Sykes


Sunrise: July 4, 1939

Sunset: September 24, 2023

Joseph Wesley Sykes, “Joe” was born on July 4th, 1939, and on September 24th, 2023, at the age of 84, he was called home to be with our Heavenly Father. Joe was a native of Norfolk, VA and the son of the late Joseph Cale and Erma Brown. He was a diligent and tireless worker. In his young professional career, he worked as supervisor at Giant Open Air Market’s flagship supermarket store that was located in the heart of the Ward’s Corner section of Norfolk.  He ended his professional career working for Stihl, Inc. where he received a “Distinguished Service Award” to honor his loyal and continuous service from 1984-2004. Joe was a lover of books. He read everything he could get his hands on. During his retirement years, he went on to sell books and clothes on the weekends at the Bellwood Drive-In Flea Market just outside of Richmond, Virginia. He was teacher at heart, and he spent countless hours engaging his friends in conversations about books, politics, music, and life in general. Among all the books he treasured, none held a more special place in his heart than the Bible, which he knew inside and out. Joe lived a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering kindness. His warmth touched the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a dedicated and loving father. Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Thelma T. Sykes; one sister, Dorothy Brown; and two sons: Gary W. Sykes and Tony B. Sykes. He is survived by his son, Dexter Sykes; daughter, Jonita Sykes-Joyner; and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Viewing Sunday, October 1, 2023 12 Noon - 4:00pm Metropolitan Funeral Service 120 W. Berkley Avenue Norfolk, VA 23523 Service COME IN PERSON OR WATCH SERVICE LIVE ONLINE Monday, October 2, 2023 12 Noon Metropolitan Funeral Service Berkley Chapel Interment Roosevelt Memorial Park 1101 Campostella Road Chesapeake, VA 23320

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Condolences(6)

  1. reply
    Cathy & Floyd Diwning says

    Condolences to family of Mr.Joseph W Sykes.our prayers are with the family.I worked with Mr.Joe for many years at Stihl.He was a very respectful person.Always had a joke to tell or give you good advice on lif.He was a mentor to me .He will truly be missed.Cathy& Floyd Downing💜🙏🏽

    • reply
      Sherrilan L Jackson says

      I send my caduceus to the family of Mr.Sykes. My prayer are with you’ll at this time of your loss. I met Mr. Sykes back in the 80’s and because his hairdresser. He was a very caring and respectful person. Always had something of great valuable to say that you would learn from and remember him by.. Always kept you laughting . He also knew his black history my kids loved to call him in the month February when they had to write book reports. He watched my 2 daughter grow up and my 4 grandkids. He’s truly going to be miss.

      I did watch the service on line. It was nice.

  2. reply
    William K ScottSr. says

    Mr Joe my condolences to his family and friends. I met him many years ago at Bellwood Flea Market. True gentleman and will be missed seeing his smiling face at Bellwood Flea Market on Sundays. Thanks for the memories 🕊️

  3. reply
    William K Scott Sr. says

    Mr Joe my condolences to his family and friends. I met him many years ago at Bellwood Flea Market. True gentleman and will be missed seeing his smiling face at Bellwood Flea Market on Sundays. Thanks for the memories 🕊️

  4. reply
    Kaitlin Hamilton says

    Mr Joe, my condolences to your family. You will truly be missed. Was my neighbor and watched me grow up since I was a baby. Whenever he saw me always said my number 1 star player his girl, I love you so much Mr Joe, I would always run over to get my hug. Made a bet who could run the fastest around the court will never forget our memories. ❤️ Rest easy Mr. Joe 🕊️

  5. reply
    Delphine Freeman says

    Rest in Paradise my friend. It was a pleasure to be in your presence and hear your laughter..❣️

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