I knew Joey through my friendship with his brother Sammy Striplin. I first met Joey at a Leon basketball game when he was talking about his tour of New York. I asked him if he'd been to Madison Square Garden. He said, " You WOULD have to mention the one place in New York that I missed...( under his breath )..JERK !! " I turned to Sammy and asked, " That's Joey's way, right ?" Sammy nodded agreement. Joey had a dry, offbeat sense of humor. ..
To the Family of Joey, I would like to say thanks for allowing him to share his gift with us through sports. He was big on perfection which allowed me to step my game up. He impacted so many lives in such a short time.
We didn't really know each other all that well initially, but after all we went through with Beth and Lisa, I had the priviledge of getting to be around you and getting to know you a little more, and, like so many others have mentioned, you were such a fun person to be around, and it's truly amazing how positive you always stayed through all of the challenges you faced. I wanna be just like you in that way! I feel so fortunate to have gotten to know you.
Always loved the time we spent together. You could always make me laugh. Love you my brother and we are all going to miss you!!! Until we meet again....
You were a joy to coach at Lincoln HS and a winner, both on and off the field. I'm proud of your coaching career, and the role model you were to so many young student athletes. I will miss your laughter and your courage will always be an inspiration. I will always cherish our memories.
You were a great colleague and friend, but more importantly a wonderful person. As much pain you were in, you never complained and always had a positive attitude, smile and a laugh that just made everyone feel at ease. The pain is over my brother and I will continue the prayers and the lighting of the candle in which you asked me to do. Until we meet again. Rest In Peace Joey, you will be missed. Love you bro!
I reached out to you a few days before you passed & thanked you for bei6as hard on me as you were. When I was 16, it ticked me off but now as a 42 year old man, i am thankful for that tough coaching because it made me the man i grew up to be! It made me determined to prove everyone wrong that doubted me. It made me hang in & never quit no matter how tough the situation was because if you quit something it becomes a habit of walking away when something doesn't go your way! Because of you (& Coach Hardin) i received a scholarship to play college football...because of you I played on a National Championship team...because of you I was a 4 year Letterman & received my degree! You taught me that life was kind & nothing is handed to you without hardworking & determination! My prayers go out to your family. Carrie, your Beautiful daughter & precious granddaughter! Rest in Peace Coach! "Let's Go"