Joe was a huge part of Austin’s entry into the outlaw and progressive country scene as an Austin DJ on KOKE radio in the early 70’s. His first bout with cancer came in 1978 when he had his larynx removed and brought an end to his radio career. He recovered and founded Electric Graceyland Studios where he met his future bride Kimmie Rhodes and married her in 1979.

Joe has been content in these later years to play bass with his wife and stepson Gabe and it was a rare treat to have them at 2009’s Catfish Festival in Conroe, Tx.

This photo was taken just before he began a new round of treatments in January 2010.

He is survived by his wife Kimmie, his daughter Jole, and stepsons Gabe and Jeremie Rhodes. A memorial service is planned for December.