Joseph Vanasa was born in Gulfport, Mississippi November 23, 1960. He is the son of the late George Radford and Maxine Patterson Radford. During his early adulthood, Joseph joined in Christian fellowship with the Mercy Seat Missionary Baptist Church- Gulfport, Mississippi- then under the leadership of Rev. Roger O. Tyler. Later on in life, he was confirmed and united with St. Theresa Catholic Church.

Joseph, "Joe", "Chief", or "Yard Boy" as he was commonly known by family and friends was educated within the Gulfport School District and after his educational tenure, he enter the work force. Joe was a hardworking and caring human being. His compassion and care for those he loved was honest and pure. His nieces and nephews deemed him an awesome uncle, and his in-law will attest to the fact that he was more than a brother-in-law to them, he was like a brother. To know Joe was to love him. Thursday March 24th, 2022, Joe took his last breath and entered into sweet rest.

In this life we meet many people and those people mold and shape the landscape of our lives. Joe was such a beautiful soul. His humor and take on life was really something to aspire to. Joe loved his community and would often tell his sister-in-law, "I'm about to make the block." She knew then he was about to ride through the community and check on, "his people". We may not all make celebrity status and our names may never be written in lights. Yet, we should strive, much like Joe, to leave a mark on the hearts of those we love and to have our names written in the Lamb's Book of Life. You light, love, and legacy will live on always. We love you Chief!

He is preceded in death by his parents; his spouse, Dedire D. Radford; two brothers, George Radford, Jr. and Don Albert Radford; one sister, Rosie Lee Payton; and one granddaughter, Emma Jean Ellis.

Joseph leaves to cherish his loving memories; his son, James Fitzgerald (Dianisa) McClendon- Gulfport; 2 daughters, Chandra McClendon and Daphne McClendon- both of Gulfport; 2 sisters, Georgia Ann Sims- New Haven, Connecticut and Maria Ann Payton- Gulfport; an aunt, Lavern (LaLa) Ausmer 11 Grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends!

He will be greatly missed, and the memories of his life will be in our hearts forever!