Joseph Peete was born on September 6, 1954, in Covington, TN, to Willie and Myrtle Alexander Peete. He gave his life to Christ at an early age and was baptized at St. Matthew Baptist Church. On March 14, 2025, Joseph passed away at Baptist Hospital-Tipton in Covington, TN.

Known as "The General" by family and friends, Joseph received his education in the Tipton County School District. At 17, he moved to Chicago, where he lived for 14 years before returning to his humble beginnings in Tennessee. Joseph worked as a Personal Care Assistant for over 15 years at Fox Bridge.

Joseph was a proud father of six children: Nortarcia Wilson of Chicago, IL; Franshun (Thirisia) Laster of Blaine, MN; Jerri Richards, Veraneec Richards, and Mario Richards, all of Chicago, IL; and Felicia Richards of Mason, TN. He also lovingly raised seven other children as his own: Jacqueline Wilson, Antonia Harris, Terri Harris, Tawana (Carnell) Douglas, Richard Harris, Darnetha Harris, and Isaiah Harris. His love for his 36 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren knew no bounds.

In his free time, Joseph enjoyed gardening, mechanical work, and lawn care. He often said that no one could care for a lawn like "The General." Though he was unique in his ways, Joseph was known for his kindness and BIG heart.

In addition to his children and bonus children, Joseph is survived by a devoted niece, Crystal Griffin of Detroit, MI; four siblings: Queen Smith of Covington, TN; Jessie (Monica) Peete of Dyersburg, TN; Lawrence (Brenda) Peete and C.L. (Rhonda) Peete, both of Detroit, MI; his lifelong partner and close friend, Annie Harris of Brownsville, TN; four aunts: Dorothy (Jody) Gude of Waukegan, IL; Virginia Kolb of Middleton, OH; Shirley Cherry of Atoka, TN; and Cherris "Jackie" Christianson of Memphis, TN; one uncle, Nathaniel Alexander of Norfolk, VA; along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, one granddaughter (Daiyona Richards), and four siblings: Lildred Jean (Eddie) Collins, Susie (Roosevelt) Thomas, Ernest Washington, and Willie (Catherine) Peete, Jr.