Final Salute

CAPT Joseph Venable, United States Navy (Retired), 79, of Lacey’s Spring, Alabama entered the presence of the Lord on September 27, 2025. He was born February 5, 1946, in Mayfield, Kentucky to parents William Venable and Martha Venable of Mayfield.
Joe is survived by his wife Brenda Page Venable of 58 years; two sons, Kirk Venable of Bells, Tennessee and Brett Venable of Germany; three grandchildren, Will Venable, Reid Venable, and Alexander Venable; and a brother, Phillip Venable of Franklin, Tennessee. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Martha Venable.
CAPT Venable was a graduate of Mayfield High School class of 1964 and later obtained a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at University of Kentucky, a Master of Engineering at University of Florida and a Master of Arts in International Relations at Salve Regina College. He was also a graduate of the Naval War College.
Joe’s legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him. His unwavering faith, love for his family, and tireless service to his country and community will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.
Joe began his 26-year career in the Navy Civil Engineer Corps in1969, retiring in 1995. During this time, he lived in Rhode Island, California, Georgia, Vietnam, Germany, Florida, Tennessee, Maryland, Puerto Rico and Virginia. His responsibilities included Public Works (Facilities, Utilities, Environmental, Transportation, Housing, Fire Marshal) and Construction Management. He was also a Warranted Contracting Officer.
His military decorations, medals, badges and campaign ribbons include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (3), Navy Commendation Medal w/ Combat “V”, Meritorious Unit Commendation (2), National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, US Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation, US Coast Guard Special Operations Service Ribbon, Vietnam Civil Action Medal, Republic of Vietnam Unit Citation Gallantry Cross Medal with Palm, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal (3), Overseas Service Ribbon, Rifle and Pistol Ribbons.
Following his military career, he and Brenda moved to North Alabama. He then worked as an Environmental Contractor on Redstone Arsenal supporting the Missile Defense Agency with Earth Tech, AAECOM and Mabbett & Associates for 22 years. He was known for his dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.
A private, family graveside service will be held.
Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel, Directing.