Joseph Edwin McCaffrey III (Joey) died peacefully surrounded by his family on August 19, 2025. Joey was born in Raleigh, North Carolina, but raised in southern Arkansas, the son of Joseph Jr. (Joe) and Elizabeth (Betty) McCaffrey. After high school, Joey attended Marion Military Institute, the US Naval Academy, and graduated from Henderson State University.
Joey had a fun, cut-up personality that made others feel at ease in his presence, which allowed all to have a good time. Joey didn’t meet a stranger. He enjoyed and excelled at sports in his youth, was an Eagle Scout, and was instilled with the importance of compassion and care for others by his parents. Joey carried this trait throughout his life, touching others with his kind spirit and entertaining personality. Joey had long-lasting friendships that enhanced his life and theirs.
During Joey’s career, he worked in the defense industry but spent most of his professional life as a teacher, which was a meaningful calling for him. Joey (fondly known as Coach) was grateful for the relationships created and time spent with his students that crossed his path, and they were endeared to him for his genuine care for them.
Joey was preceded in death by his father, Joe McCaffrey Jr., and his brother, Timothy (Timmy). He is survived by his mother, Betty McCaffrey, and was a cherished big brother to Pat, Mike, Shaun, and Colleen. He is also survived by his nephew Ryan, Ryan’s wife Kaitlin, and his great-nephew, Adam.
A family memorial Mass celebrating Joey will take place at a later date.
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