He was preceded in death by his parents, twin brother, James Hamilton Bedingfield and brother in law Dr. Percy Dayton Sadler. Joe is survived by his wife of 60 years, Katherine Ann Richardson Bedingfield; son, Joseph Pearson Bedingfield, Jr; daughter, Katherine Lloyd Bedingfield Grant (Phillip); grandchildren, Joseph Pearson Bedingfield, III; Julia Elizabeth Bedingfield; Allison Nicole Grant and Lindsey Kathryn Grant; sister, Kathryn Bedingfield Sadler, nephew, Steven Dawson Sadler (Lynn) and Stewart Pearson Sadler; niece, Joanne Bedingfield Lawler (Brent), as well as many cousins.
Joe grew up in Dixons Mills, AL and graduated from Linden High School in 1955 where his father was the principal. He next graduated from the University of Alabama where he was member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and received his commission in the Army. It was also here that he began his lifelong love of golf and tennis as well as Alabama football.
He spent the next forty years in Florida, first in Tampa, where he completed his duty in the National Guard, and then in Fort Myers where he and Katherine Ann raised their family. Joe was well regarded in the insurance industry as well as the local community serving their church in many capacities, as well as President and Board member of the Independent Insurance Agents of SW FL, Edison Pageant of Light, and Rotary Club of North Ft. Myers, where he was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow. In addition he served on the Board of Directors of The Salvation Army and United Way.
A desire to be close to grandchildren led to a move back to Tuscaloosa in 2003. They soon after joined First United Methodist where they were active members. He promptly picked up with Rotary, once again serving on the board as well as other capacities while continuing his perfect attendance.
Joe loved people and always had a joke or funny story. His happiest days were those spent as Granddaddy, especially if a pool or beach was close, as well as trips to North Carolina with their Supper Club.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on April 26, 2024 at 2 pm at First United Methodist Church, with Dr. Clinton Hubbard officiating.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to First United Methodist Church or Hospice of West Alabama.
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