Joseph Alvin Wortham, 85, passed away Sunday, March 19, 2017. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Shirley H. Wortham; children, Joseph A. Wortham Jr. (Zann); Kevin F. Wortham (special friend, Joe Mastandrea); Katrina W. Mayfield (Tim); Stacey W. Irwin (Tom); four grandchildren, Aimee M. Wortham; Mason H. Wortham; Jared F. Wortham and Megan R. Rose. He was born in Fort Valley, Georgia. Joe was a member of the United States Air Force and served in the Korean War. He retired from the U. S. Government Department of Defense as a machinist. He was a loving husband and father and worked closely with local Boy Scout Troop 97, being very involved in the troop''s activities for many years. After his retirement in 1998, he and Mrs. Wortham enjoyed traveling the U.S., while serving as volunteers with the National Park Service until 2011. Joe also served as a deacon at Broadway Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Boulevard Baptist Church, Southaven, MS or a charity of the donor''s choice. Family and friends will gather to share memories 12-2 p.m., Wednesday, followed by services at 2 p.m. Both at Forest Hill Funeral Home and Memorial Park South.