Joe Milton Furlow, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend was born December 30, 1957, in Pasadena, TX. He passed away peacefully on May 4, 2025, in Liberty, TX. He leaves behind a legacy that will resonate with those who knew and loved him.
A workaholic, Joe was a devoted family man whose love and pride for his children/grandchildren knew no bounds. Not only was Joe the backbone of his family but also their moral compass, embodying what it meant to love hard and give selflessly. Joe was the kind of man who would “give you the shirt off his back,” making everyone feel valued and cherished. His easy-going nature and willingness to partake in any activity just to bring happiness to others highlighted his generous spirit. He had a great love for his community and proved as such with his generosity. Always stepping up in any way possible to enrich the lives of others without wanting anything in return. A simple thank you or a big bright smile were more than enough. Joe was also a proud republican with great admiration for our president, Donald Trump. Though somewhat of a people watcher, when engaged in a joyful setting, Joe transformed into the life of the room. Constantly drawing people in with his quick wit & warmth.
One of his greatest accomplishments is his ranch in Devers, TX. Joe transformed what was once just a multi-acre plot of land used for rice farming into a sprawling, vibrant, beautiful place for his cattle business. Ranching was not just a business for Joe; it was his passion. Along with the ranch, Joe, acquired 380 acres in Oak Island that quickly became a sanctuary for him and his family. It’s a place where he could fully embrace the beauty of the life he had so tirelessly created. His retirement plans revolved around continuing to nurture the legacy he had built, pouring his heart into every aspect of The Ranch & Oak Island.
Joe was known for his rock-solid determination & perseverance. There was never a problem he couldn’t find a solution to. He had an unwavering optimism about him. “Well, it’ll be alright,” was a signature phrase Joe used to reassure whomever he was speaking with that it would all work out. He paved a great foundation for his family by owning his own business, Pro-Formance Services. Joe’s success in business and life could be attained to his heart of gold that poured love into all endeavors and relationships.
The strong family bond he cultivated will be cherished by all, most especially, his loving wife, Irene Furlow. Joe loved Irene with a fierceness that is unmatched. She is a constant source of love and devotion, not only to Joe, but to the family. Without him even saying it, you could see through his actions his deep love & adoration for his wife. Together the two of them could weather any storm with absolute grace.
Joe’s spirit lives on through his children, DJ Furlow (Hetta), Jessica Eddy(Paul), Matthew Furlow, Kaitlyn Furlow (Daniel), Cody Downs (Alex), and Kelly Downs.
Joe also took immense joy in his grandchildren/great grandchildren: Brooklynn, Laythe, MaKenna, Luke, Ethan, Jenson, Jamison, Zaden, Maverick, Jalyn, Jace, Jade, Asa, Kutter, William, Samantha, and Katie. Great Grandchildren: Scarlett, Christopher, Elias.
Surviving him are his brother David Furlow (Janet), sisters, Sue Sabin (Harold), Lana Listi (Michael); along with numerous nieces, nephews and a host of loving family and friends.
Joe was proceeded in death by his parents James Welton Furlow and Patricia Joan Thompson Furlow. As well as his cherished grandson, Jamison Don Busby.
Honoring Joe as pallbearers are Jacob Fregia, Brett Sandefur, Laythe Furlow, Kirby Potetz, Jace Eddy, and William Downs. Honorary pallbearers are Matt Furlow, Dennis Furlow, Vernon Reed, Daniel Tubb, William Horn, David Ray, Asa Furlow, Randy Robertson, Paul Eddy, Eugene Thibodeaux, Pablo Valesquez, Sandy Sandefur, Mike Rives, Aubrey Fregia and Chris Sabin.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at First Baptist Church Devers in Devers, Texas. Funeral service will be held at 3:00 pm on Friday, May 9, 2025, at First Baptist Church Devers in Devers, Texas officiated by Pastor Coby Elliott. Interment to follow at Ricebelt Cemetery in Devers, Texas.
Joes’ legacy is one of dedication, love, and an unyielding spirit - a testament to a life well lived. His life resonated with laughter, hard work, and the values he held dear. He will forever remain a guiding light for those he loved. A true cowboy and a stalwart family man whose presence enriched the lives of many. As Joe always expressed to others, “Make sure you close the gate.”