Joseph Franklin Hulse

My dad was the best and always will be. He may be gone from my sight, but he is always in my heart. So, it’s with heavy hearts that the family has to announce the passing of Joseph “Red” Franklin Hulse, a dedicated Navy veteran and an adoring grandfather.He was the loving husband to the late Barbara Sarver Hulse for 53 years. A loving and caring father to Lisa H. Melerine (Tony). PawPaw to Sebastian Melerine IV (Stephanie), Joseph Melerine and Justin Melerine (Hilari). Great PawPaw to Kale Franklin (Joseph), Elleanor Rose (Sebastian) and Felix Adam (Justin). Joseph is preceded in death by his wife Barbara Hulse; his parents Pauline and Caldwell Hulse Sr. His siblings Caldwell Hulse Jr. and James Hulse (Gail). Granddaughter Keysha Nicole Melerine.

Joseph was born and raised in Kentwood, LA. He resided in St. Bernard Parish for 61 years. He served his country with honor and pride in the United States Navy during the Korean War on board the USS Yorktown CV-10 where he displayed unwavering dedication to his duty and an exemplary commitment to his fellow service members. He worked at the Domino Sugar Refinery in Chalmette for 43 years where he retired. He was a generous man and volunteered many hours at the Versailles Park as a coach, the Good Samaritan Food Bank, Civil Defense, the Los Islenos Society, the Coastal Zone Committee and the Wetlands task force.

In addition, Joseph was not only a devoted veteran but also a doting grandfather. He treasured every moment with his grandsons, passing on his memories, humor, Navy adventures and wisdom to them all; including his passion for fishing. His great-grandchildren were the apple of his eye and he would give them whatever they wanted. His love for them was immeasurable, and he always found joy in spending time with them, creating lasting memories. Joseph’s absence will leave a big void that will never be filled. But his memory will continue to inspire all those who knew him. For his love for his family, his country and life itself was legendary.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held at ST. BERNARD MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Friday, November 17, 2023 from 9:00 AM- 11:00 AM. A funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow in ST. BERNARD MEMORIAL GARDENS. To view and sign the Family Guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com