Nov. 22, 1945-July 2, 2024
Joseph Winship Mongold took his “final flight” on July 2, 2024, after a long battle with ALS. A true Southern gentleman, his baby blue eyes, smile, gap between his teeth, sense of humor, humility, positivity and love of life will linger in the hearts of those who knew him, never to be forgotten.
Son of George and Nell, beloved husband to Sandy, father to Amanda and Alex (Carrie), grandfather to Wrylen, Tatum, and Magnolia Mae (granddog) and brother to George and Marjorie Lane (deceased).
Born on Nov. 22, 1945, Joe grew up south of the Mason-Dixon Line. His first 10 years were spent in Maywood, a suburb of Olive Branch, Mississippi, before moving to Atlanta, Georgia. He attended Georgia Military Academy for high school, graduating in 1964. Auburn University followed, where he graduated in 1968 with a BS in business and science.
Joe then underwent naval aviation training in Pensacola, Florida. After receiving his wings, he was stationed at Barbers Point, Hawaii (1970-73), with deployments to Southeast Asia flying the P3 Orion. After completing active duty in 1973, he moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where he flew for Federal Express for the next three years before joining Western Airlines. In 1987, Western merged with Delta, where he stayed until his retirement in 2003 as a captain and line check pilot. Joe also continued his Navy career in the Naval Reserves, retiring in 1987 as a commander.
Upon retirement, his passion for golf led him to St. George, Utah. There, he enjoyed not only golf but also motorcycles, remote-controlled airplanes and flying an experimental Taildragger until he could no longer put on the brakes.
Joe was a true patriot with a deep love for our country. He had immense gratitude for all who served before him, with him and after him. God Bless the USA.
His family wishes to thank his fellow Naval Aviators, his golf competitors, the airport hangar Saturday Bacon Breakfast Club and the entire staff at the Southern Utah Veterans Home for making it possible for him to enjoy and complete his life of “living the dream.”
Fly high, Joe …
There will be a private graveside service at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to:
“Follow the Flag,” PO Box 1261, Pleasant Grove, Utah, 84062 or send inquiry to [email protected].
Arrangements are under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S Bluff St., St. George, 435-673-2454. Family and friends are invited to click here to sign Joesph’s online guest book.