Wilkerson "Joe" Couty Jr., aged 91, of Chicago, Illinois passed away on April 10, 2026

Born on June 16, 1934 in Derry, Louisiana, he was the son of the late Wilkerson and Etta Couty. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army and a dedicated union carpenter for over 30 years.

He is survived by his son Brian Couty and his loving daughter-in law Leslie Couty; his daughter Donna Lakin; and his cherished grandchildren, Krystle, Jacqueline (Tony), Ryan (Emma), Megan, and Eric. He was predeceased by his wife of 41 years Millow "Jean" Couty who he loved since the day he met her and his siblings Marie, Ella, Garnett, Willie Mae, June, and Oakie. He was a proud uncle and cousin, and a great friend to many.

If you knew Joe, you loved Joe. He loved sitting outside, cold drink in hand, with his neighbors on Fletcher Street, whom he considered family. He was a hilarious storyteller and always had a crowd gathered around to hear his anecdotes, memoirs, and sometimes tall tales. When he wasn't talking, you could hear him singing or whistling a favorite tune. He loved watching a good baseball game, especially the Chicago Cubs. You could often find him playing cards at the table, watching horse racing or boxing, and his recent love for SB mowing. Joe was a resourceful, modern-day "MacGyver" who believed "a lazy man can invent anything." He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone who needed it. One of his favorite pastimes was just hanging out reminiscing with his nieces, nephews, and extended family. He cared deeply for his son Brian's lifelong friends, whom he considered "his boys."  His children and grandchildren, who lovingly referred to him as Papa Joe, were his world and he was endlessly proud of them. He was a man of faith who never missed a nightly prayer. He will be remembered for his strong moral compass, generosity, quick witted responses, and easy going approach to life. Joe will be deeply missed and remembered by many. His legacy will live on in the memories that were made with him. A life well lived deserves to be celebrated.

Flowers are welcome or memorial donations made to St. Jude Children's Hospital in honor of Wilkerson "Joe" Couty, Jr.