A Gentle Soul Remembered: Joseph Hamilton McMakin's Enduring Legacy

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Joseph Hamilton McMakin’s peaceful passing on Sunday, April 28, 2024. Joe, as he was affectionately known by countless friends and family, was 78 years old. He departed from this world surrounded by the love of his devoted family at his home in Allentown, Pennsylvania, leaving behind a void that words can hardly describe, yet a warmth in our memories that will forever linger.

Born on June 15, 1945, in Bethlehem, Joe was the cherished son of the late Thomas and Eleanor (Hamilton) McMakin. From his earliest days, it was clear Joe possessed a quiet strength and an inherent curiosity about how things worked. He spent his childhood exploring the creek banks and backyards of the Lehigh Valley, always with a mischievous twinkle in his eye and a knack for tinkering. Those early years in the Valley truly shaped the man he would become.

After graduating from Liberty High School, Joe further honed his practical skills at Lehigh County Community College, specializing in electrical engineering. This education wasn't just a degree; it was the foundation for a distinguished 40-year career at Bethlehem Steel, where he rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a respected foreman in the electrical maintenance department. Colleagues often spoke of his incredible work ethic, his meticulous attention to detail, and his calm, steady demeanor even in the most challenging situations. He was, in every sense of the word, a true professional and a mentor to many.

Beyond his career, Joe’s greatest joy and profoundest commitment lay with his family. He shared 54 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Mary (O’Malley) McMakin, a partnership built on mutual respect, deep affection, and an abundance of shared laughter. Their love story was a testament to enduring devotion, a beautiful example for all who knew them. Together, they built a home brimming with warmth, open doors, and the comforting aroma of Mary’s cooking, often accompanied by Joe’s favorite classical music playing softly in the background.

Joe was a loving and supportive father to his two children, Michael McMakin and Sarah (McMakin) Davis. He instilled in them the values of honesty, perseverance, and compassion, always encouraging them to pursue their passions. Oh, how he adored his grandchildren, too! Emma and Liam Davis, along with Noah McMakin, were the absolute light of his later years. He reveled in their accomplishments, big or small, and cherished every moment spent telling stories, sharing his wisdom, or simply watching them play.

In his leisure time, Joe was a man of diverse interests. He possessed an incredible talent for woodworking, crafting intricate pieces of furniture that are now treasured heirlooms in his family’s homes. He was also an avid gardener, his backyard a vibrant testament to his patience and green thumb, a place where he found peace amidst the blooms. Sundays often found him engrossed in a good historical novel or passionately cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles, a loyal fan through thick and thin.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Eleanor, and his dear sister, Patricia Jones. While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the rich tapestry of his life. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary; his son, Michael McMakin, and daughter-in-law, Rebecca, of Philadelphia; his daughter, Sarah Davis, and son-in-law, Mark, of Center Valley; his cherished grandchildren, Emma, Liam, and Noah; and his brother, Robert McMakin, of Florida, along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will carry his memory in their hearts.

A viewing will be held on Friday, May 3, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Pearson Funeral Home, 1901 Linden Street, Bethlehem, PA. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 1040 Flexer Avenue, Allentown, PA, with interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made in Joseph's name to the American Heart Association, a cause close to his heart. Joe’s quiet strength, unwavering love, and gentle spirit will be profoundly missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire us all.