Biography: Joseph Louis McDole Sr. was called home to the Lord on March 31, 2025, peacefully passing at Good Samaritan Hospital, surrounded by the love of family and friends. Born on August 12, 1940, to the late Maggie McDole and Ollie James in Bay Minette, Alabama, Joseph's life was one filled with passion, dedication, and service to others. He graduated from Douglasville High School in 1957 and went on to pursue his dream at the New York Culinary Institute, where he honed his skills in pastry and baking, ultimately becoming a renowned chef.
After completing his culinary education, Joseph moved to Monticello, NY, where he worked as a pastry chef at the Concord and Kutshe’s Hotels. It was during this time in Monticello that Joseph met the love of his life, Bessie (Bess), at Victory Supermarket. He knew exactly when she would be there, and he made it his mission to win her heart. Their connection was instant, and on September 21, 1963, they were married and soon relocated to Queens, NY, to begin their life together.
In their union, Joseph and Bessie built a loving family and, in 1965, moved to Spring Valley, NY. There, Joseph worked as a baker at Wyckoff Bakery in NJ, Paukla’s, Rockland Bakery and others in the Rockland area. He eventually fulfilled his dream of opening McDole’s Take-Out Restaurant, a beloved family business that became an integral part of the community. The restaurant was a testament to his work ethic, dedication, and commitment to providing quality service. The McDole family took pride in offering not only delicious food but also a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all who came through their doors.
Joseph’s faith journey began at a young age. He was baptized, filled with the Holy Ghost, and dedicated his life to serving the Lord. He became an active member of the church, where he was committed to its mission and community. Later, he joined St. John Deliverance Tabernacle, where he served with unwavering dedication for 45 years under the leadership of the late Apostle D. Elizabeth Alston.
Joseph was a devoted deacon and a cherished member of the men's choir, often singing his favorite song, "Do You Know the Man?" His presence was felt in every aspect of church life, and he also contributed his time and knowledge to Bible school. His faith in God, his family, and the church was steadfast.
Whenever you encountered Joseph, his warm smile was sure to brighten your day. And as the day came to a close, he would always offer his loving reminder: “Don’t forget to read your Bible and pray.”
Joseph's legacy lives on through the family he built, the lives he touched, and the love and kindness he shared with all who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will remain in our hearts forever.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Bessie Cornelius McDole (Bess); his mother-in-law, Annie Telfair, and mother-in-law, Emma West; his father-in-law, Moses West; and father-in-law, Augustus Telfair, Sr. as well as his siblings James, Charles, Eddy (Roy), Troy, Barry, Garry, Gilda Faye (Sis), Otis, and Margaret.
Joseph leaves behind to cherish in his memory his siblings: Johnny Van McDole, Wayne Joseph McDole, Mary Higgins, and Earlene Kelson; his sister-in-law, Virginia Johnson (Emmanuel); and his brother-in-law, Augusta C. Telfair Jr. He is also survived by three daughters: Emily A. McDole, Kimberly A. McDole, and Jo-Ann Henderson; two sons: Joseph L. McDole Jr. and Christopher T. McDole (Camille). Bonus children: Patricia Ann Elison (Charles) Joseph's grandchildren, whom he adored, include: Joemal, Rahkeem, Mercedes, Muti, Kaylyn (Clement Jr.), Kamris, Kristen, Trevon, Christopher Jr., Lorenzo IV, Trevonafaith, Cameron, Loren, and Victoria. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren: Nyiah, Joemal, Christopher, Destiny, Carmelo, Camilla, Celine, and Jenesis. Devoted Godchildren: Jaffrey Clay, Wendy Paul, Latasha, Carlos, Jarred,
Anthony, David, Marcel, and many others.
Joseph is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family, friends, and his beloved church family. Joseph was a devoted husband, father, grandfather (Papa) brother, uncle, and cousin who deeply loved his family. We will miss your laughter, your smile, your kindness, the jokes you shared, and the precious moments spent baking with your grandchildren. Most of all, we will miss the boundless love you gave to each of us.
