[In Memoriam] Joseph Grimes Bartlett, 71

This obituary originally was published by Clements Funeral and Cremation Services:

Joseph Grimes Bartlett, formerly of Gainesville, Florida, passed away Sunday, May 26, at Hock Family Pavilion in Durham. He was 71.

Born in Detroit, Mich., Bartlett was the son of the late Frank Bartlett and Ann Nicols Bartlett. He loved growing up in Detroit and spending his summers in Silver Point, Tenn. In 1974, Joe moved to Gainesville, Fla., and never looked back. You could find him at the 43rd Street Deli reading the paper or hanging out on his porch in Turkey Creek tinkering.

Bartlett was an artist, teacher, and woodworker who enjoyed many different eras of Gainesville. His stained glass windows grace churches and homes around town, and his natural wood furniture is next to many couches. He was active in the Touchdown Club, arts festivals, and art programs at Santa Fe College. He was also an avid fan of the University of Florida sports programs and yelled at the TV, especially in the last few seasons of football. (2024 is your year, Coach! Do it for Joe!)

Bartlett is survived by a daughter, Sarah Durlacher; his favorite son-in-law, Drew Durlacher; former spouse, Cynthia Barnett; brother, Tom Bartlett of Ann Arbor, Michigan; his beloved grandchildren, Mila Durlacher and Owen Durlacher; and wonderful dear friend, Nena Lee.

Joe didn’t want a fuss or a service, but he will always be with us in search of a good time. Margarita on the rocks, no salt. To Joe!

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