Joseph Warren "Joe" Vallandingham

Joseph Warren “Joe” Vallandingham, 91of Bushwood, Maryland peacefully passed away at home on July 26, 2025. Born at home in Chaptico, Maryland, Joe was the eldest of thirteen children of the late William Lawrence “Willie” and Mary Helen (Thomas) Vallandingham. Joe was the devoted husband of Susan May (Thompson) Vallandingham. The couple was united in marriage on July 4, 1958 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Bushwood, Maryland and recently celebrated over 67 years of marriage – a testament to their enduring love and partnership. At the age of 22, Joe proudly enlisted in the United States Army, honorably serving his country from 1956 - 1958. He attained the rank of Specialist 3rd Class (SP-3), received a good conduct metal and qualified as a Rifle Sharpshooter. Joe spoke often of his fond memories while stationed in Germany. Following his military service, Joe returned home to Bushwood, Maryland and began working as a butcher for Mattingly’s IGA in Leonardtown, Maryland. He later accepted a position at the Patuxent River Naval Air Station Commissary, Patuxent River, Maryland, where he faithfully served for 30 years until his retirement in 1994. Throughout his career as a full-time butcher, Joe also worked tirelessly on the farm, raising tobacco for over four decades. His unwavering commitment to providing for his family was evident in the countless hours he dedicated to both professions, embodying the values of hard work, perseverance, and devotion. Throughout their lives, Joe and Susan were active members of their community and enjoyed a rich social life. They were members of a local dance club and could often be found dancing at monthly gatherings held at St. Francis Xavier church hall, especially enjoying the music of Bob Norris and the Country Cousins. Weekends were frequently spent with hosting or visiting with family or friends for shared meals and spirited game of pitch. They also traveled extensively across the United States and Canada, and shared a deep love of fishing and crabbing. Joe found his greatest joy in time spent with family, particularly with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was a lifelong member of the Catholic faith and worshipped at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in his youth, later attending Holy Angels Catholic Church. Following the lightning strike that damaged the original Sacred Heart Church on April 16, 1944, Joe was among a group of young students called upon to assist in the cleanup, an experience he recalled with great reverence. The church remained a place of spiritual and emotional significance throughout his life. Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Susan May (Thompson) Vallandingham; his children: Joseph Warren “JW” Vallandingham, Jr. (Loretta), and Lynn Marie Kronenwetter (Dave); four grandchildren: Shandi Ann Umphrey, Jacob Matthew “Jake” Vallandingham (Emily), Cole Allen Kronenwetter and Sydni Lynn Kronenwetter., two great-grandchildren: Robert Stanley Umphrey and Lylian Grace Umphrey. Joe is also survived by his siblings: Virginia Gragan, Peggy Bowles, Bert Vallandingham (Charlotte), Tommy (Phyllis Gibson) Vallandingham, Danny (Dorothy) Vallandingham, Margie (Rick) Hicks, Fay (Grant) Wallace, and sister-in-laws: April Vallandingham, and Audrey Vallandinghamn. Joe is predeceased by his siblings: John William Vallandingham, Sr (Hilda), Robert Vallandingham, Sr., Marion Vallandingham, Ann Vallandingham and Little Debbie Vallandingham, brothers-in law: Lathan Gragan, and Jimmy Bowles. Visitation will be held on Monday, August 4, 2025 from 9:30 am – 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 23080 Maddox Road, Bushwood, Maryland 20618. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 10:30 a.m. with Fr. Golas and Deacon Joe Lloyd officiating. Interment will follow immediately at the church cemetery. Pallbearers will include: Bert Vallandingham, Tommy Vallandingham, Danny Vallandingham, Jake Vallandingham, Cole Kronenwetter, and Dave Kronenwetter. Honorary pallbearers will be Shandi Umphrey, Emily Vallandingham, Sydni Kronenwetter, Robert Umphrey and Lylian Umphrey. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charitable organization of your choice: