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Joseph “Joe” Larry Porter was born in Mesa, Arizona on July 11, 1942, to his parents William S. and Hilda Webb Porter. He passed away with his wife by his side on February 9, 2022, just a few months shy of his 80th birthday.
Joe spent his childhood creating many memories with his family including the treasured annual “round-up” at the family ranch near Flagstaff, Arizona. In high school, Joe loved playing basketball and had the opportunity to meet his wife, Sharon during his senior year though he soon after left to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Minnesota and Canada. Upon Joe’s return to Arizona, he pursued a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Arizona State University. With this degree, Joe became a successful businessman and developed many residential communities throughout Mesa in addition to owning and operating Joe Porter Realty.
On January 30, 1964, Joe married Sharon Kay Richey in the Mesa Arizona Temple. Together they raised 6 wonderful children who were the light of his life. Even throughout his busy career and demanding church callings, Joe was devoted to his family and loved to spend time with them traveling the country and the world.
Joe’s life was characterized by a love for and dedication to God. He had the opportunity to serve as a Bishop, Stake President, and regional representative along with many other callings. In 2007, Joe and Sharon served in the Nauvoo Temple in Illinois. That experience was a highlight of their life and an exclamation point on their years of service.
Anyone who knew Joe knew him as a fun-loving man. Many of his family’s favorite memories of him contain countless jokes that Joe would tell. Joe was also incredibly selfless and loving and dedicated his life to his God and his family. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Sharon, 6 children, Dan (Tiffany), Dave (Mimi), Julie (Kent Baldwin), Rich (Lindsey), Shellee (Rob Kjar), Jenny (Andrew Knudsen). He also leaves 34 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. His
family will miss him dearly but know that he is at rest and surrounded by loved ones on the other side.
His visitation will be held at Bunker Funeral Home on Friday, February 18th from 6 to 8 pm, and a funeral service will be held at the Mesa Stake Center (1050 S. Hobson, Mesa, Arizona) on Saturday, February 19th at 10 am.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
I loved Joe! Just being around him was an honor. He was always making fun of uptight people. He made me feel loved & accepted. His humor in High Priest Group was unequalled. His lovely bride, Sharon, always had a smile & a kind word for me.
How we love and admire Joe and Sharon Porter! Thankyou President Porter for serving us as our Bishop, Stake President, and neighbor. It was always fun when you and Sharon were around. Love, David and Judy Smith