Joseph graduated from Akron South High and went on to enlist in the United States Marines.  Joseph was an Honorably Discharged, decorated Vietnam Veteran. Joseph's hobbies included photography, and watching baseball, basketball, and football. He especially cherished spending time with his grandchildren and family members.

Joseph was preceded in death by both his parents Joseph Jerels, Willie L. Herring, and his sister Arethia Johnson.

He is survived by former wife Almondine "Jean" Poole, their children daughter Arethia "Duck" Marie Herring of Florida, three sons Lance Herring (Shae), Joseph "BJ" Herring Jr., Konrad Herring (Mekea) of Texas; granddaughters Morgan, Kayla Marie; grandsons Dinari, Konrad Jr., Karon, Manuel "Manny"; three great grandchildren; one brother Terry Herring (Christine) of Michigan; two aunts Myrtle Herring, Lydia Herring, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

"Sleep on Butch and take your rest, we love you, But GOD LOVED YOU BEST."

Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, but very near.

Author unknown