Joe L. Goldsby, 85, of Mitchell, Indiana, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday evening, April 22, 2026, at Redcrest Hospice in Bloomington.
Joe was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather as well as a friend to many. He will be remembered for his steady presence, deep kindness, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved. He lived a life grounded in hard work, purpose, and quiet generosity.
Born on June 11, 1940, Joe was the son of John M. Goldsby, Jr. and Nora Brown Goldsby. He grew up in Englewood, Indiana, where he learned resilience early in life after losing his father at the age of two. With the support of family and neighbors, he developed the strength and character that would define him.
A 1958 graduate of Shawswick High School, Joe proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army, working in the Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps as a court reporter at Fort Knox, Kentucky.
On May 28, 1961, he married the love of his life, Linda Sujane McNeely. Together, they built a life marked by commitment, partnership, and enduring love.
Joe dedicated over four decades of his career to Lehigh Portland Cement Company, where he fulfilled many roles, including quarry supervisor. After retirement, he continued doing what he loved—being behind the wheel—driving a flatbed trailer for Hancock Trucking Company for several years. Joe often said it was the best job he ever had.
Joe was also a dedicated member of the American Legion Post No. 250 for 60 years, where he served as past commander and as adjutant for over three decades. He was also a member of the 40 & 8 Voiture Local #1250. His commitment to service and community left a lasting impact.
As a young man, Joe dreamed of becoming a racecar driver. That passion never left him. From walking miles as a boy to the Mitchell Speedway, to racing go-karts, Joe’s love of racing was constant. He was also an avid golfer who enjoyed time on the course and even helped his brother run Persimmon Ridge Golf Course for many years. Whether it was racing, golf or bowling, Joe always brought good-natured competitive spirit and a smile to match. When illness precluded his active lifestyle, he became a consummate reader of news, including every obituary in the Indianapolis Star daily, and maintained his love of folk, rock, blues, and gospel music.
Joe is survived by his loving wife, Linda Sujane Goldsby; his sons, Michael (Beth) Goldsby of Muncie, Indiana, and Thomas (Kathleen) Goldsby of Knoxville, Tennessee; his grandchildren, Emma Goldsby and Aiden Goldsby; and step-grandchildren, Will Powell, Andy Powell, and Sarah Powell. He took immense pride in the accomplishments of his sons and grandchildren.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Edward (in infancy), Gary, Don, Les, Marilyn (Sears), Wayne, and half-brothers James Ritter and Ronald Ritter.
A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Saturday, June 6, 4:00pm at MVP Entrepreneur Learning Center in Mitchell.
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