Joseph Gilman Lagasse, Jr., age 59, of Ball Ground, Georgia, passed away on Saturday, September 26, 2026, with loved ones by his side.

Joseph was born on March 5, 1967, in Hartford, Connecticut, to the late Shirley Newman Barrett and Joseph Gilman Lagasse, Sr.

Joseph (known by Joe or Gilman) had the biggest heart, standing as a pillar of strength for his family while remaining profoundly gentle in spirit. He was very hard-working and took immense pride in his work. For over 20 years, he worked as an owner-operator for Siracusa Moving & Storage, a career that took him across the country. He loved driving through the Midwest as he fondly called it “God’s Country”. Yet, no matter how far the highway stretched or how many miles he logged, his favorite place was always home.

His family was his absolute life. He poured everything he had into being a devoted husband and father, and his proudest achievement was simply being there for the people he loved. He was unapologetically himself, a man who wore his heart on his sleeve and loved fiercely. If you knew him, you loved him, and he will be deeply remembered for his unwavering dedication, his protective strength, and the love he had for his family and friends. He was a man of steadfast faith, and we take comfort in knowing he is now resting in the eternal peace of God and his Lord, Jesus Christ.

He is survived by his loving wife, Christine Lagasse, and his four daughters: Kristen Lagasse, Rachael Lagasse, Madison Lagasse, and Kaitlyn Lagasse. He is also survived by his loving in-laws, his stepmother, his two sisters, his brother, his grandchildren, and many beloved uncles, aunts, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Shirley Newman Barrett, his father, Joseph Gilman Lagasse, Sr., and his stepfather, James Barrett. He was also preceded in death by his beloved mémé and pépé, as well as many loved uncles and aunts.

A private memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in the Chapel of Darby Funeral Home in Canton, Georgia.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Joseph’s name to his favorite charitable organizations: St. Jude Children’s Research and Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

The caring staff of Darby Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Joseph Gilman Lagasse, Jr.