Joe Killough was from a farming family in Crenshaw County, Alabama. He was graduated from Luverne High School in 1939. During WWII he served in the Army Air Corps as an airplane mechanic stationed in India. After his honorable discharge he went home to help his aging parents. In 1951 he began working for Otis Elevator Company. The following year, he married Frances Louise Williams.
In 1956 they transferred to Huntsville, where he was the face of Otis for many years. Often known as “Mr. Otis,” he was revered by his customers for his integrity and hard work. He also loved to tinker with things, taking them apart to see how they worked. Sometimes he put them back together.
Joe and Frances had one daughter, Joy Denise. His dedication to his family was evidenced in many ways, and especially throughout Frances’s nine-year battle with cancer. Although economic circumstances prevented his attending college, he made the most of educational opportunities that came his way. He made sure his daughter and granddaughters were afforded the chance to pursue their educational goals.
His devotion to God was evidenced within and without his spiritual community. Joe and Frances were founding members of Highlands Baptist Church, where he served many terms as a deacon. He never shied from physical work, and was always ready to lend a hand – to anyone.
Joe was blessed with a long and full life. He will be missed but we rejoice that he is with his Jesus, his family, and friends. He is survived by his daughter, Joy Amel – his pride and joy; granddaughters Frances Melicks (Frank) and Lynn Harned (Ken); and four great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Monday at Highlands Baptist Church, 2525 Aspen Ave. Huntsville. The funeral service will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m. at the church with the Rev. Don Ware officiating. He will be buried in Montgomery, Alabama next to his wife, Frances.
