Joseph F. Mahan

Joseph Francis Mahan, affectionately known as Joe or Joey, was born on February 16, 1935, in Boston, Massachusetts, to Joseph Henry and Grace Barton Mahan. Joe passed away on October 10, 2026.

Joe enjoyed a happy childhood as an only child growing up on Commonwealth Avenue in Boston. Even as a boy, he had a gift for entertaining those around him with his remarkable repertoire of sounds and impersonations. This talent remained a signature part of his personality throughout his life.

After graduating from Boston University, Joe moved to New York City to pursue his ambition of conquering Madison Avenue and building a successful career in advertising. It was there that he met Donna Lee Wheelbarger. Their courtship unfolded through letters, and as their love grew, so did the cost of postage. Joe eventually decided that marriage was the more practical solution, bringing Donna from Florida to New York to begin their life together.

Donna liked to say that she had agreed to be the caboose to Joe’s engine, following him as his career carried them across the country. Their journey took them from New York City to Buffalo, New York, then to Salina, Kansas, and finally to Columbia, South Carolina, where they settled and raised their family.

Throughout his life, Joe remained devoted to his Catholic faith, a commitment that was deeply meaningful to him. He especially treasured his time at Our Lady of the Hills Catholic Church, where his faith continued to be an important part of his life.

Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife Donna. Joe is survived by his sons, Doug and Daren (Amanda); his daughter-in-law, Kelly; and his beloved grandchildren, Tyler, Payton, Lottie, and Callie, who carry forward his family’s legacy.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Westminster Memory Care and to Sharon Gibson for her devoted care, kindness, and unwavering commitment to Joe, particularly over the past year.

A mass will be held in Joe’s memory at Our Lady of the Hills. Further details, about the mass, will be provided at a later date.

A private service will be held at a later date in Boston, MA.