The first time I met Joey, he handed me a crisp two dollar bill. He told me I would never go broke as long as I kept it, but to always pay it forward to anything and anyone that meant something to me. Every person he met got the same gentle nudge to bring the best version of themselves and spread kindness.

This was Joey. Pure love, a bright light, and one of the best friends all of us at Friendship Circle ever had. He made every room brighter and chose joy, day after day, even in the face of loss. He was more than a loyal patron of Soul Cafe and Dakota Bakery. He would waltz into the building to chit chat, share a kind word of support, or spark a good laugh, reminding us what community really feels like.

We are heartbroken by the news of his passing, and we will honor him in the way he loved most, by paying it forward and shining a little brighter. If you have a Joey story or memory, we would be so grateful if you shared it with us so we can remember him together.