Joseph Allen Fugate

Joseph Allen Fugate took his final flight to his heavenly home on August 4, 2022 at the age of 85. He was born on September 23, 1936 in Alachua, Florida to the late Roland Montgomery Fugate and Laura Pauline Cocke Fugate. Joe attended the University of Florida before enlisting in the United States Air Force. He proudly served his country for 10 years as a fighter pilot, achieving the rank of Captain. During his time in the Air Force, Joe took an assignment that brought him to Houma, Louisiana, where he met his future wife, Cheryl Gaudet. When his time in the Air Force ended, Joe became a pilot for Delta Air Lines and enjoyed a 30 year career with what he considered the best airline in the industry. Joe was an avid rosarian during his time residing in Metairie and Destrehan, and he and Cheryl were members of several rose societies. Joe grew over 300 beautiful rose bushes at his Metairie home and he was thrilled to be featured on Angela Hill’s Good Earth program on WWL. Besides roses, Joe loved to play chess. He rose to a high rank in postal chess, but his proudest accomplishments were his wins against chess masters who were ranked higher than him. Family meant everything to Joe. He had a heart of gold and loved unconditionally. Joe always considered helping to educate his children and grandchildren one of his greatest endeavors. He will be deeply missed and remain forever in our hearts. Joe is survived by his wife of 58 years, Cheryl Gaudet Fugate, and his two daughters, Sara Dailey (Scott) and Joanna Gele’ (Brian). He was the proud grandfather of Lauren Hymel (Jimmy), Patrick Dailey, Brandon Gele’ and Matthew Gele’ and proud great-grandfather of James Hymel III. He is also survived by his sister, Ruth Elizabeth O’Conner. In addition to his parents, Joe is predeceased by his brother, William Fugate. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to the funeral service on Saturday, August 13th, 2022 at Garden of Memories Funeral Home, 4900 Airline Drive, Metairie, Louisiana 70001. Visitation is from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. with a small service at 3:00 p.m. followed by military honors. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Joe’s name to MD Anderson Cancer Center (www.mdanderson.org). To leave condolences please visit www.gardenofmemoriesmetairie.com.
 

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