Dr. Joseph "Joe" Wise

Dr. Joseph “Joe” Wise, 92, passed away on Monday, March 1, 2021. 

Dr. Wise was the first department chair in the College of Education. He also served on Provost Emeritus Janna Vice's doctoral committee. He retired from EKU in 1986, as a full professor in the College of Education.

He was born on Dec. 6, 1928, in Neon (Letcher County), Ky., and was the son of Nageeb and Helen Wise. He was a veteran, having served in the U.S. Air Force, and was of the Christian faith. Dr. Wise received his doctorate from the University of Kentucky. He was a father/mentor to his many students and his family. His daughter Cynthia Wise Jennings graduated from EKU with a degree in fashion merchandising. Two of his grandchildren graduated from EKU.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Morris Wise.

Survivors include: two daughters, Linda W. Huff, of Richmond, and Cynthia “Cindy” Wise Jennings (Greg), of Lexington; four grandchildren, Kristi Huff (Shaun Thomas), Joseph Huff, Tyler Jennings, and Kayleigh Jennings; a great granddaughter, Harper Thomas (the daughter of Kristi Huff and Shaun Thomas); a brother, Ben Wise (Liz); a sister, Ruth Muenze and a sister in law, Brenda Morris Hughes. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Martha Wise and Rose Wise.

A memorial service was held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 6, at Oldham, Roberts & Powell Funeral Home. 

Donations are suggested to Hospice Care Plus, 208 Kidd Dr., Berea, KY 40403.