Joel Lawerence King

Joel Lawerence King, known to his friends as Jojo, passed away on October 20, 2023, in Joplin, Missouri. He was born on May 3, 1987, in Claremore, Oklahoma. Joel was well-loved by his family and friends and will be deeply missed.

Joel grew up in Kenwood and attended Kenwood School. He completed his high school education at Oaks alternative school. Throughout his life, Joel was known for his quick wit and one-liner jokes that brought laughter to those around him. He had a special talent for bringing smiles to people's faces.

One of Joel's greatest joys was spending time with his family and friends. He cherished the bonds he had with his loved ones and always made an effort to create lasting memories. Joel enjoyed outings to the casino with his friends, where they would share laughter and good times.

Joel had proud accomplishments throughout his life. On August 27, 2023, he rededicated his life and was baptized at the Outreach New Life Church in Pawnee. This spiritual journey brought him great joy and fulfillment. Additionally, he had a deep love for his stepchildren and treasured the moments spent together with them.

Joel is survived by his mother, Lois Blackbear of Vinita, OK; his brothers, Michael King and wife Denise of Pawnee, OK, and Alan King of Vinita, OK; as well as his stepchildren Dylan, Dessa, Sweet Chris "Bubba", and Evan; and 6 step grandchildren, with two on the way.

Joel is preceded in death by his father, Homer King Sr., his brother, Homer "Mush" King Jr., long-time sweetheart, Barbara Shocklee, as well as his maternal and paternal grandparents. Their memories will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who loved them.

Funeral services for Joel will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, November 3, 2023, at the Euwasha Baptist Church with Reverend Richard Budder officiating. Interment will follow in the Euwasha Cemetery with Chris Shocklee Sr., Dylan Shocklee, Lowell Compton, Ricky Carnell, Seth Starr, and Josh Chancellor serving as casket bearers. Honorary casket bearers include Bull Tagg and Jerry Tagg. A visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Thursday, November 2, 2023, in the Shipman's Funeral Home Chapel in Pryor. To leave his family a personal message, please visit his guestbook at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service of Pryor.