Joseph Lawrence Brady Sr.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph Lawrence Brady Sr., a devoted husband, father, and pillar of the Asheville community. He departed on February 26, 2025, at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and achievement.

Born and raised in Asheville, Joe was the son of Francis Eugene and Virginia Welch Brady. He graduated from Lee Edwards High School and Blanton’s Business College, earning an Associate’s Degree in Business.
Before pursuing higher education, Joe worked at Gorham Manufacturing Company as a tool and die maker.

Joe proudly served in the US Navy aboard the USS Pickaway during the Korean Crisis. After his military service, he went on to become a respected Certified Healthcare Business Consultant. His professional accomplishments included serving as President of Professional Management of Battle Creek, MI, and President of Healthcare Business Consultants in Asheville.

Joe’s commitment to community service was evident in his roles as former Chairman of the Board of Crowfields Condominium Association and of the Rathbun Center. He was a devoted member of St. Barnabas Catholic Church in Arden, where he served on the Parish Council and finance commission. Joe also belonged to the Knights of Columbus and was a former member of the Asheville Country Club.

Joe and his family formerly lived in West Asheville where he was an active member of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church and School.

In his free time, Joe enjoyed golfing and cheering on his beloved UNC Tar Heels basketball team. In his
younger years, he loved water skiing and spending quality time with his family on Lake James. Above all, Joe cherished his wife and family.

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Barbara Jolley Brady; four sons: Larry (Roman) of Charlotte, Michael (Kathy) of Flat Rock, Chris (Laurie) of Charlotte, and Colin (Sandra) of Danville, VA; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and brother-in-law Charles Jolley. He was predeceased by his sister Virginia Brigham, stepdaughter Kathi Donaldson and her husband Dwight.

His life will be celebrated at a Funeral Mass on Saturday, March 22, at 11:30 am at St. Barnabas Catholic Church in Arden, NC. The family will receive guests at the church social hall for one hour prior to the Mass. Joe will be laid to rest with military honors at Crawford-Ray Memorial Gardens in Clyde, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Capital Fund of St. Barnabas Catholic Church. Groce Funeral Home is assisting the family.