Mr. Joseph Elijah Frith age 87, of Orange Park, passed away Tuesday, October 5, 2021 at The Terrace of Jacksonville. Mr. Frith was born on December 20, 1933 in Blakely, Georgia to the late Joseph E. Frith and Hettie Esther (Deal) Frith. Josephs greatest devotion was to God, Family, Country, dogs Baby June and Precious, and Fat Cat. He loved being "Poppie" to his eight grandchildren and he was very close to his baby brother Tommie Frith. Next was his love and commitment to the men and women he mentored and led as a Sergeant Major in the United States Army. He was a decorated Vietnam Veteran and top Army Recruiter, earning him the key to the Virgin Islands for his exemplary recruiting, service and leadership. He was a gentleman of honor and integrity of the highest caliber, a man of few words yet extraordinary action. His work ethic was second to none, oftentimes working two or three jobs to provide for his "greatest achievements", his girls. Upon retiring after 30 years, he spent 15 years with the United States Post Office and ran his lawn service after hours. His sense of humor was infectious. He had a soft heart for the underdog and would help anyone in need. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Mildred, Annie Mae and Ruth. Survivors are, his wife of 59 years, Josie J. (Maze) Frith, daughters, Diana Frith Lanier (Wayne) of Jacksonville, Sharon (Sherri) Lee Frith (Carlos) of Jacksonville, Laura Marie Burdetsky (Bryan) of Orange Park, brother, Tommie Frith of Lake Butler and eight grandchildren. The family will receive friends at Hope Baptist Church on Saturday, October 9, 2021 from 10:30 am to 11:00 am with funeral services beginning at 11:00 am. Interment will follow in Hope Baptist Church Cemetery with Pastor Wayne Lanier officiating. In lieu of Flowers contributions may be made to one of his favorite charities, The Humane Society, St. Judes or One for Israel. Arrangements are by JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME OF STARKE 904-964-6200 Cemetery Hope Baptist Church Cemetery 3900 State Road 100 Starke FL 32091 US Visitation Saturday, October 9, 2021 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Hope Baptist Church 3900 State Road 100 Starke FL 32091 US Funeral Service Saturday, October 9, 2021 11:00 AM - Hope Baptist Church 3900 State Road 100 Starke FL 32091 US Funeral Home Jones - Gallagher Funeral Home - Starke 620 E. Nona Street Starke FL - 32091 US (904) 964-6200