Harry Joe Warren, "Joe" to most and "Bopa" to his family, died unexpectedly at home on Thursday, November 7th, 2024. Joe was 86 and had lived in Woodstock, Vermont with his son Doug Warren and his family for six years as his dementia became more pronounced. He was a beloved member of First Congregational Church Woodstock, where many congregants helped watch over him.

He was born in Okmulgee, Oklahoma on March 13, 1938. Joe grew up in a loving Christian family with parents Harry Jay and Evelyn (Hufford) Warren, brother Michael Warren and sister Loraine (Warren) Marlow. He was the first-born grandchild on both sides to maternal grandparents Ernest & Iva (Bartow) Hufford, and paternal grandparents Jeff and Ida Mae Warren. He was also much beloved by his maternal great-grandparents Will & Dora (Miller) Hufford.

Joe met Sue Ellen Donnelly in Chicago and whisked her away on his motorcycle. Theirs was a whirlwind romance, as he swept her off her feet. They were married in Long Island, NY. From there they moved all over the United States and were blessed with two sons, Harry Jay Warren and Douglas Donnelly Warren. They were happily married for more than fifty years.

His relationship with Jesus Christ was the most important aspect of his life, as it gave meaning and significance to every other part. He was always glad to serve and used his many talents in various roles through the years, including Sunday School teacher, deacon, and elder.

Joe loved his country and served in the US Marines Corps, graduating from basic training at Camp Pendleton in California. When question of his service came up, Joe would usually demure, saying he wasn't a "real Marine" as he "only" served as a Marine Reservist. But this was out of respect for his cousin, Don Mason, who was a Gunny Sergeant in the Marine Corps with multiple tours in Vietnam.

Ever since his high school counselor told Joe that he was "not college material," formal education was very important to him. He went to DeVry Institute in Chicago and received an associate's degree in Electronics, which he used working for a railroad, surveying track with cutting edge electronic equipment. Once married and settled down near the old Mitchell Airforce base, Joe completed his BS in Mathematics at CW Post University. This led to a job in purchasing, which opened a career in government contracts administration. He received his Master's degree from American University, which in turn provided opportunities for teaching in both university and industry settings. Joe completed all but his dissertation for a Doctorate of Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University. He also taught classes at the University of Virginia, University of Houston, and American University. He found great fulfillment in helping students navigate the world of federal procurement.

Joe is survived by his brother Michael Warren (Rita), sister Loraine Marlow (Bob), son Doug Warren (Kristen), pastor at First Congregational Church Woodstock, their four grown children: Donnelly Warren (Lucy), Karis Warren (fiancé Timo Mather), Libby Black (Chip), and Colby Warren, as well as by his son Jay Warren's widow, Kitty, and sons Joseph Warren (Lauren), Christopher Warren (fiancée Rachel Farmer), and Brian Warren. He also leaves nine great-grandchildren, including one on the way.

He is predeceased by his parents, Harry & Evelyn Warren, his wife, Susie Warren, his son Jay Warren, his grandson Jason Warren, and his granddaughter Krystal Smith.

There will be two memorial services. One will be held at First Congregational Church Woodstock on Saturday, January 11th at 1pm. There will be a time of refreshments and fellowship at the church following the service.  The other will be held at Christ Presbyterian Church in Georgetown, Texas on Sunday afternoon, February 2nd. In lieu of flowers the family requests that gifts be given to First Congregational Church Woodstock at 36 Elm Street Woodstock, VT 05091.