I’m AJ, the only son and child of Joy and Arturo “Jojo” Adriano, my Uncle Joel’s eldest brother.

I once read a book written by Victor Frankl titled “Man’s Search for the Meaning of Life.” I found a quote from his book that I find appropriate and comforting in difficult times like this that will no doubt echo the sentiments my dad would be sharing with us today if he were still here:

"There is no need to be ashamed of tears, for years bore witness that a man had the greatest of courage, the courage to suffer."

My godfather and Uncle, was a deeply loving and prayerful man.

Uncle Joel and his siblings did not have the easiest time growing up despite all the efforts of my grandparents. With the limited means they had, they had to turn to one of the things they did have - each other. It was this bond between the siblings that endured the test of time that I witnessed growing and still do to this very day with my Uncle Bodjie and Uncle JayJay. This love and appreciation for what “family” can provide and mean transcended from Uncle Joel’s love of his parents and siblings, to the unwavering love he had for his wife, Auntie Pam, and his children, Ate Aia and Kuya JC, and my soon to be, Kuya Christian.

I said that family was one of the things that Uncle Joel had to turn to, the next - his Faith. His steadfast and prayerful devotion to Divine Providence is what also helped him to keep moving forward in the face of every hardship from financial, to his health. I find comfort in the belief that in the end, his dedication to God made him not afraid of his passing, but welcomed it as a final reprieve from his temporal troubles.

My Uncle Joel has at last been reunited with his father and siblings that went to our heavenly home before us. They all celebrate his homecoming and hear his full boisterous laugh as they share the stories of their lifetime.

Rest in eternal peace, Uncle Joel. Please give dad a hug for me.

I was saddened when I heard the news of Joel’s  passing.  Back in Manila and in the US you always share memorable stories about college life, I enjoy listening to you always full of energy and wisdom. You remember names, touched lives and developed deep relationships kasi very welcoming ka. You are loved! 

Eternal rest grant unto you🙏💐

Tito Joel was truly one of a kind. He was one of the toughest guys I have ever known, yet the sweetest when it came to family and friends. He was more like a big brother to me, and it was always great to see him every time I did. He was a great man, a wonderful father, a devoted uncle, an affectionate granduncle, and a loyal friend. We were fortunate to have him as part of our family, and it was always a joy to see him at our gatherings. We loved hearing about his exciting exploits and stories, especially from his younger days with his Alpha Phi Omega family. He never failed to check on everyone, including our mom and the kids. He had a genuine interest in what everyone was up to and always offered kind words of support, guidance, anecdotes, and the usual pat on the back in every conversation. Even the kids in our family were fond of him and appreciated his presence in their lives. It was no surprise that they were all shocked and saddened by his sudden passing like everyone was.

He was a great family man who took wonderful care of our Tita Pam, and their kids Aia, and JC. His love for them knew no bounds, and we witnessed that throughout the years. One of the greatest gifts he left us was that - his immense love for family, both immediate and extended. His absence will be deeply felt by everyone in the family, leaving a void in our hearts. We will miss him terribly and hope he is happily smiling down on us from heaven, free from worldly difficulties, pain, and suffering. We love you, will miss you and will never forget you, Tito Joel. Until we meet again. Thanks for everything! Rest in eternal peace. To Tita Pam, Aia, and JC…my deepest condolences…we’re here if you need us… 

We'll be missing you brother Joel  till we meet again  Rest in God's eternal peace  !

“Wala yan sa lolo ko!” Joel would fondly interject during lighthearted conversations about our experiences in life. His presence in any gathering is palpable. But the most presence he imparts to people is his love for the Lord and his family. Joel, we have always considered you as part of our family, in our household and in the SD community. In your passing you taught us so many lessons. You taught us how to be resilient, hopeful, loving and most importantly submit to God’s will. You also brought us together and showed us the importance of continuing to love each other. May you rest in the bosom of God’s eternal embrace! We love you!

Dear Kuya Joel,

I am truly grateful to have a cousin like you , who has been kind, God-fearing, and obedient.

Growing up with someone like you have been a blessing, and I can only imagine the positive impact you had on your life.

It is wonderful to have a family member who embodies such admirable qualities, and I hope that your influence will always be remembered to inspire and guide the people you have touched or helped.

Thank you Kuya Joel for being a good cousin, a friend to your peers , a good sibling , uncle , nephew , a son to your parents & father / spouse to your family.

We will miss you but your happy memories will linger forever. We ❤️ YOU !

Uncle Joel was my 3rd oldest Uncle, out of 7. He was my mother's brother. He is one of my father figures because I was raised by a single mom. Out of all my uncles, he was the only one who taught me how to save money and value it, sad to say it didn't suffice (but will still try for you.) He and I had a "date" at a fancy Japanese restaurant for my 12th birthday, that's why I raised the bar high with first dates with men. He patiently taught an artsy & angry tween (me!) Math while I was growing up. He treated me ice cream and cake every weekend and contributed to by path to chubbiness. He was the right combination of strict, yet my first memories of getting drunk was with them, my uncles, and how I loved the lightheadedness champagne gave me. It was so easy to talk to him- so clear and no judgement but it made me grounded. He was a very decent man- he is one of the very few father and husband figures I admired. He was very spiritual and willing to guide, support and love someone he cares about. And most of all, I want to thank him dearly because even if I am almost middle-aged, he still called me "hija," and always highlighted that I was his first niece and the first grandchild in our clan. Baby oil for hair and crisp, well-ironed shirts and clothes will always be your thing. Please hug Mommy and everyone for me there. I love you always, Uncle Joel. 

Joel will surely be missed. I will always remember the great and fun times we had together with you and your family. . Our out of town trips, our camping trips, our prayer meetings together and so much more. Pam, Aia and JC, my deepest condolences. Tight hugs to all of you. 🙏❤️

Our thoughts and prayers are with you - Pam, Aia, and JC - during this very difficult period. Joel was a good man who always thought about family and brought life and light everywhere he went. Our get togethers will not be the same without him. We will miss him tremendously .

Gone too soon. A true disciple and holy son of God. Dedicated to God, community and family. Rest in peace bro. Joel. Our deepest condolences and prayers to you Pam and family. God be with you.