Joe Doyle “Big Bird” Courtney, 56 years old, of Milan, Missouri passed away Saturday, December 5, 2020 at Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville.
Joe was born August 20, 1964 to Lonnie Courtney and Letta Ray (Eddy) Sanders, they both preceded him in death. He was also preceded by a brother, Fred Courtney. Joe is survived by: Three daughters, Rebecca Morgan and husband Rodney of Carrolton, Missouri, Ruth Stark and husband Bryan of Gallatin, Missouri, and Emma Courtney of Tina, Missouri; a step son, Joey Harris of Iowa; grandchildren, Kiara Courtney, Sabel Courtney, Kenneth Courtney, Remington Eastin, Harlee Eastin, Elleigh Harbert, and Alleigh Harbert; brother, Mike Courtney and wife Georganna of Milan; a sister, Tammie Jones and husband Bob of Camdenton, Missouri; a half-brother, Rick Courtney and wife Donna of Mechanicsville, Maryland; a step-sister, Debbie Wright and husband Mike of Trenton, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.
Joe grew up in Milan, and in 1982 he enlisted in the United States Army, also serving in the National Guard. He worked for the City of Milan and later for the City of Trenton. Joe also worked at Smithfield in Milan, which is where he got his nickname “Big Bird” because at work he wore a yellow coat. Joe enjoyed fishing and hunting; he was an avid duck hunter.
Joe was cremated and a memorial visitation will be held from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Saturday, December 12, 2020 at Schoene-Ruschmeier Funeral Home in Milan.