Joel R. Lancaster

LANCASTER, Joel R., Captain, USN (Ret.), 73, of Brandon, FL, passed peacefully July 15, 2013 surrounded by family and friends. Joel was born in 1940 in Cullman, AL. Having a great thirst for knowledge, he received his BS from San Diego State University, earned his Master of Science and completed his PhD studies at the University of Tennessee and taught at Tennessee Tech University. Joel served his country in the United States Navy for 38 years. He had many adventures throughout his life, but considered the highlight of his career to be his time as the JIATF East Liaison Officer with the Dutch Military in Curacao NA. He was a member of the VFW, MOAA, the American Legion and served as President of the USS Samuel N. Moore Assoc. In his retirement he enjoyed his volunteer work with the Friends of the Bloomingdale Library and traveling the world with his wife. Joel is preceded in death by his parents, John H. Lancaster and Bessie Mae Lancaster. He is survived by his loving wife, Constance S. Lancaster; daughter, Cynthia (Jackie) Hembree; two sons, Tony Lancaster and Alex Lancaster; step-daughter, Bonnie Bishop; step-son, Mark Bishop; granddaughter, Jennifer; step-granddaughter, Marissa; two great grandchildren; brother, James D. Lancaster; extended family and many friends. Joel bravely battled cancer for two years. He was a mentor to many, a wonderful husband and father, and will be dearly missed for his kindness, graciousness, intellect and spirit. As he requested, there are no services and he will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Dr., Tampa, FL 33612-9416. Please view and sign our online guestbook by clicking the link below.