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Sadly, Joseph Essex, a 29-year-old resident of DeKalb, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly on November 19, 2023. Born in Aurora, Illinois, Joseph had been employed by Northern Illinois University in DeKalb. He is survived by his father, brothers, sister, and maternal grandmother. Funeral services will be held at the Nelson Funeral Home in Waterman, Illinois. Friends are invited to pay their respects prior to the service. Nelson Funeral Homes & Crematory is handling the arrangements.

Joseph Essex Obituary

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph Essex, a beloved resident of DeKalb, Illinois. Joseph’s unexpected departure on November 19, 2023, at the age of 29, has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him. Born on February 14, 1994, in Aurora, Illinois, Joseph was welcomed into the world by his parents, Glenn Essex and Jeanne (Culbertson) Essex.

Early Life and Family

Joseph’s journey began in Paw Paw, Illinois, where he spent his early years surrounded by the love and care of his family. Tragically, his mother, Jeanne Essex, passed away in 2017, leaving a profound impact on Joseph’s life. Despite this loss, Joseph’s memories of his maternal grandmother, Edith Essex, who resides in Crystal Lake, Illinois, and his late grandfathers, William Culbertson and Homer Essex, continue to hold a special place in his heart.

Employment at Northern Illinois University

Joseph dedicated a significant portion of his life to Northern Illinois University, located in DeKalb, Illinois. As a valued member of the university community, Joseph contributed his skills and expertise to his role for several years. His commitment and dedication to his work left a lasting impression on his colleagues and peers.

Surviving Family Members

Joseph is survived by his loving father, Glenn A. Essex, who resides in Paw Paw, Illinois. He is also survived by his brothers, Glenn A. Essex Jr., residing in North Aurora, Illinois, and Jonathan Essex, residing in Oak Brook, Illinois. Joseph’s sister, Kaitlyn Essex, who resides in DeKalb, Illinois, shares in the grief of losing their beloved brother. The support and love of their extended family, including aunts, uncles, and cousins, provide solace during this difficult time.

Funeral services to honor Joseph’s life will be held at the Nelson Funeral Home in Waterman, Illinois, located at 1001 E. Garfield Street. The services will take place on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at seven o’clock in the evening. Private arrangements for the burial will be made. Friends are invited to pay their respects at the Nelson Funeral Home on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, starting at 2:00 PM until the time of the service. For additional information, please visit the Nelson Funeral Homes & Crematory website at or contact them at 815-264-3362.

Funeral Arrangements

As we gather to bid farewell to Joseph Essex, we want to ensure that his final journey is marked with dignity and respect. The funeral arrangements have been carefully planned to honor his memory and provide solace to those who mourn his loss.

Location and Date

The funeral services will be held at the Nelson Funeral Home in Waterman, Illinois, a place that holds a special significance for Joseph and his loved ones. Located at 1001 E. Garfield Street, this serene setting will serve as a comforting space for family and friends to come together and pay their final respects.

The services will take place on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, a date that will forever be etched in our hearts. At seven o’clock in the evening, we will gather to celebrate Joseph’s life, share cherished memories, and find solace in each other’s presence.

Visitation and Service Details

Prior to the service, friends and loved ones are invited to join us at the Nelson Funeral Home starting at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, November 28, 2023. This visitation period will provide an opportunity to offer condolences, share stories, and offer support to Joseph’s family during this difficult time.

The service itself will be a heartfelt tribute to Joseph’s life, filled with love, remembrance, and the celebration of cherished memories. We will come together to honor his accomplishments, reflect on the impact he had on our lives, and find solace in the shared bond of grief.

Arrangements by Nelson Funeral Homes & Crematory

The Nelson Funeral Homes & Crematory, entrusted with the responsibility of Joseph’s final arrangements, will ensure that every detail is handled with the utmost care and professionalism. With their expertise and compassion, they will guide us through this challenging time, providing support and comfort to Joseph’s family and friends.

For additional information about the funeral arrangements or to express your condolences, please visit the Nelson Funeral Homes & Crematory website at or contact them directly at 815-264-3362. Their dedicated team is available to assist you and provide any necessary information during this difficult period.

We are deeply saddened to share the obituary of Joseph Essex, a beloved resident of DeKalb, Illinois, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 29. Joseph was a valued member of the community and had been employed by Northern Illinois University. He is survived by his father, Glenn Essex, his siblings, and his maternal grandmother, along with numerous extended family members. Funeral services will be held at the Nelson Funeral Home in Waterman, Illinois, on November 28, 2023. Friends and loved ones are invited to pay their respects during the visitation hours. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Joseph’s family and friends during this difficult time.