Joseph Michael Peniche

On November 30, 2022, Joseph Michael Peniche stepped out of the final chapter of his life on Earth and into the Glorious Kingdom of his Heavenly Father, where there is no more pain, sorrow, or suffering, and where every tear will be wiped away. (Rev 21:4)

Joe put his trust in his Lord & Savior Jesus Christ at a very early age, and Jesus promised, “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.” (John 10:28)

Joe had a decade-long struggle with mental health issues which ultimately led to his tragic and much too early death. Those who knew him well described him as a young man with a sweet and gentle spirit despite his body-builder’s impressive physique. He readily sought to encourage others especially those struggling with their own psychological, emotional or spiritual issues. He didn’t hesitate to declare the Gospel of Jesus Christ when he felt so led.

He graduated from EC Glass HS and completed classes at CVCC and Liberty University. He loved reading and body building for which he worked as a trainer at gyms in Richmond, VA, and Lynchburg. Though he struggled with mental health issues no one ever questioned his character. When asked what words come to mind when they think of Joe the most common are: loyalty, honesty, mercy, and compassion.

He leaves behind his parents, John & Suzanne Peniche; sister, Cristina; wife, Melody, and two very young children: son, Axel, and daughter, Ariana – all of Lynchburg, VA. In addition, he is survived by grandmother, Ginny Mae Burnette; aunt, Debbie Farris, both of Lynchburg, VA. In Houston, TX, grandmother, Dean Peniche; uncle, Carlos Peniche; and aunt, Angie Tucker (Mike). He is also survived by cousins, Ed, Will, and Marc Peniche, Abby Tucker; and a very special stepdaughter, Miko Walthall, of Lynchburg.

He was predeceased by grandfathers, Eduardo Peniche and Clayton Jones; and cousins Amada Peniche and Bronwyn Farris.

All those who love him are grieving deeply, beyond words, but take heart in the promises of Holy Scripture:

“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.” (1Th 4:13-14)

We who remain look forward to a sweet embrace with Joe at Heaven’s Gate.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, from 6:00 – 9:00 PM at Tharp Funeral Home, 220 Breezewood Drive Lynchburg, VA. A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, December 8, 2022, at 1:00 PM at Tree of Life Church, 2812 Greenview Drive Lynchburg, VA, with Pastor Jonathan Falwell officiating. Interment will follow at Spring Hill Cemetery, 3000 Fort Ave. Lynchburg, VA. All are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a financial gift to help people with mental health and substance abuse issues: UP Foundation, 2420 Memorial Ave., Lynchburg, VA, 24501.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.

To view the livestream of the service, please click here.