Joe and I were best friends since high school and roommates through much of our 20's. We shared many adventures - "cruising" and chasing girls in school, disco hopping in the late '70s, ski trips, scuba trips, traveling and many other excursions best friends would take, sometimes with dates but many times just by ourselves. Although we both had very different lives as we settled down and grew older, we never, ever lost that close friendship and bond. He was many things to me, friend, confidant, adventure buddy, brother. Through it all, he was always funny, kind, helpful, silly, generous, inspiring and sure to make you smile. I can't come close to adequately describing what his loss means, although I am sure he is laughing and crying with me as I look through old photos - and also calling me a few choice names we used to constantly banter at each other. His spirit never grew old, and he kept part of me youthful with him. I loved him dearly and will miss him terribly. He has most certainly left us too soon.
P.s. I am uploading photos throughout the years...
What a sad time..... Joe was always so kind to me through the years, called me often even knowing that I was on a show. “ I have a dead body, you want to do it? Hahaha... always joking and times of serious quiet conversations. Called me inn if I needed work and always respectful. Hadn’t seen him in a few years, but we always touched bases with each other during holidays and wished each other the best!!! Last time I reached out was last April and we had a nice chat, not knowing that that would be our last..... we’ll chat again.... love you Joe. 🌺💜 thank you for being there. Dalia🌸
He was a friend, colleague and one of the most generous, kind and hilariously funny people I have known. Sharing our stories of working together on "Dallas" in the early 1980's would send us into fits of laughter. His calm demeanor when surrounded by chaos was a blessing. Gone way to soon, but I will remember him always and those moments will put a smile on my face. Paul Snider
I worked on NCIS on and off for the last 12 years as a makeup fx artist. Joe always gave us a lot of creative freedom and I definitely felt appreciated by him. Of course he occasionally made comments like “what the hell is she doing here?” and “who’s this hack?” in his deadpan and hilarious way only to be pulled aside and told I wouldn’t be there if he didn’t trust me. Joe always made me feel like I knew what I was doing, even when I questioned myself. He was generous, kind and one of the funniest people I’ve ever met. I will always remember your hysterical stories and your pretend indifference. Your mocking and patting me on the back simultaneously. I’ll miss us snapping our fingers and strutting, uttering “we’re makeup artists...this is how we walk...” I will miss you so much my friend. You were one-of-a-kind. Thank you for so many cherished experiences. May your memory be eternal.
He was my friend. I loved him so much. I’m still not handling this. The world needs more Joe Hailey’s... Not less. I love you Joe. My brother. Thank you for your unending love, support and friendship. - Pauley