Joseph Gaither Milstead, 87, died June 16th at his home in LaCombe, LA. Joe was born in Charlotte, NC on August 15, 1938, son of the late John Woodson and Mary Walser Milstead. He was predeceased by his wives, Esperanza "Hope" Vargas, and Norma Sharp Milstead. He is survived by two brothers, John Woodson Milstead, Jr. of Hickory, NC and W. Milstead of South Carolina, one sister, Mary Milstead Lindsey of Bennettsville, SC., three daughters: Mary Ann Milstead (Kenny Leras) of Galveston, TX, Jessica Milstead of La Combe, LA., and Victoria Milstead of Gulfport, MS., one son, Joseph Gaither Milstead, Jr., of Ashland, NY.; Grandchildren: Lisa Milstead, Kelly Leras, Dante Cornnell, Jordan Cornnell, Hailey Benenati, Jacob Benenati, Annabelle Milstead, Noah Belsome, Elijah Belsome, Aeden Milstead, Emma Milstead, and Gabriel Milstead, as well as many great grandchildren, great, great grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Joe was raised in Rockingham, NC where he was a member of the First Presbyterian Church. He attended Rockingham High School, the class of 1956, where he participated in football and was a member of the band where he played the trumpet.

Joe raised his family in Galveston, TX. He was a Boat Captain and loved being on the water. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. Sometimes they accompanied him on his fishing boats, the Miss Mary Ann, the Jessica Lynn, and Empty Pockets. He enjoyed spending time at the lake with his siblings. There was lots of laughter, boating on the lake, great food, and watching football. Joe was known for his wit, humor, and a giving spirit.

After his retirement, Joe devoted his time and energy to the East Saint Tammany Habitat for Humanity, He and wife, Norma, also loved gardening and spending time with the grandchildren. A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, June 20th at his home in La Combe, LA with his family and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Carnes Brothers Funeral Home in Galveston, TX.