Joseph Somers

Joseph William Somers, Jr., 87, of Nashport, Ohio, died Wednesday morning, March 12, 2025 at his home.

Born November 2, 1937, he was a son of the late Louva C. (Hardesty) & Joseph W. Somers, Sr. and was long-time member of Perryton United Methodist Church. Joseph was a member of the United Auto Workers for 39 years, Newark Moose Lodge #499 and Buckeye Lake Eagles Lodge #2801. He was a forklift driver and served as the chief steward at Rockwell International, where he retired. Joseph enjoyed telling stories, restoring old vehicles, target shooting and playing his guitar and harmonica. On his 50th birthday, he surprised his family and friends by earning his pilot’s license and loved flying ever since. What Joseph loved the most was spending time with his family.

Surviving are his children; two daughters, Deborah (Randal) Reasoner of Canton, Ohio and Joyce (William) Perry of Corbin, KY; son, Joseph R. (Kristi) Somers of Zanesville; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; two brothers, James E. (Robin) Somers of Newark and David M. (Vickie) Somers of Zanesville; sister, Susan E. Morris of California, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by the love of his life, Kathryn E. (Bush) Somers whom he married August 1, 1969, and who died February 28, 2012; two sons, Dennis W. Somers and David A. Somers; brother, Daniel P. Somers; sister, Charlotte Pace and his two furry companions, Saddie and Abby.

Also preceding Joseph in death is a dear friend, Gerald Graham who died December 22, 2024. Joseph and Gerald shared a lifelong friendship. Gerald’s grandson, Matthew Graham, was also a close friend and Joseph considered him a “bonus grandchild”.

Friends and family may call 1 P.M. to 3 P.M. Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at the Frazeysburg Chapel of Vensil & Chute Funeral Home, 110 West Third Street.

Funeral Services will be 3:00 P.M., immediately following the conclusion of calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Perryton United Methodist Church, Care of Ruth Osborn, 12355 Scout Road, Frazeysburg, Ohio 43822.