A quick update on Joe’s health and cancer journey
I wanted to share an update on my father’s health and cancer journey. Over the past six months, his health has declined significantly due to the progression of aggressive cancer and Parkinson’s disease. Since his last reflection on March 8th, his condition has reached an advanced stage; he is now confined to his home under the care of hospice, with limited ability to communicate or write.
While his physical strength has faded, his spiritual resolve remains the anchor for our entire family. Throughout this process, Dad has leaned on the very verse he so often championed in his past reflections:
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13
For Dad, these were never just words on a page; they were his life’s mission. We see that strength now more than ever. Even in silence, his faith speaks volumes, and he continues to draw from a well of divine strength that surpasses our understanding.
There is a deep sense of peace having him at his home on Heard Ave. for these final moments. This house has been his sanctuary for 30 years, and it is a blessing to see him surrounded by the incredible care of my mother, Stephanie, my siblings, and our close family. We are focused on keeping him comfortable and pain-free, walking this path alongside him just as he has always walked alongside us.
We have been particularly moved by the ministry of Fr. Mark Ross, who has visited numerous times to pray over Dad and sustain us through scripture. Fr. Mark shared a perspective that has profoundly changed how we view these difficult days: he noted that Dad’s suffering is a testament to how he has carried a cross for all of us, including his family. Seeing him bear this weight with such quiet grace has given us immense peace; it is a final, selfless act of love from a man who has always put his faith and family first.
As Dad prepares for the transition that lies ahead, we find our comfort in the same Gospel promise he has built his life upon:
“Those who received Jesus Christ as their personal LORD and Savior are with Him in paradise when they die.” – (Luke 23:43)
We know that for Dad, this is not an end, but a home-coming. His deep faith has prepared him for this moment, and we rest in the knowledge that his journey leads directly into the peace of paradise.
Thank you for your continued prayers and for being part of the community that has strengthened him over the years.
-Joey Herzberg
My prayers are with Joe and each of you as you navigate this difficult time. Joe has always been a good and faithful servant, reflecting the light of faith in God. His fingerprints and footprints will remain for so many of us. (I had the privilege of working with Joe at Piedmont.) While the end of earthly life is hard, I pray the journey brings profound peace knowing he will have life eternal at the feet of our Savior. 🙏💔❤️
Dear Joe, thank you for faithfully following your call to Carmel. Your commitment to drive from Augusta to Marietta is an inspiration to each of your Carmelite brothers and sisters. We called upon your wise council, and you graciously guided the community to better serve the Church, family, and society through prayer, service and community. You grew spiritually as Paul led the men in formation and willing served on council…so many blessed memories! You embody Christ’s love, joy, strength, and faithfulness! All of the Carmelites in heaven and on earth pray for you and your dear family. We love you, Joe, with Christ’s everlasting love! Keep up the good work! Love, Diana, Genny, Linda, Archana, Gwen, Eneni, Janet, Don, Cecilia, Sandi, Cecile, Denise, Evy, Debbie, Paul, Anna, Patti, Joseph Barnes, Charlie, Bill, Kate, Pat, Sandra Marques…Vita, Dianne, Peggy, James Honrine, Theresa Givens…
Joe was one of my favorite HR people I’ve met in my professional career. It was also so nice to find a fellow Catholic in a non-denominational organization! His advice and peace then has continued to move me when I’m feeling anger or frustration in the workplace. I’m thankful for him. I’m also grateful for his faith which will lead him home when the time comes. Praying for the Herzberg family!
Our continued prayers for Joe and the entire Herzberg family.
Our thoughts and prayers to the entire family may God bless him and keep him in the hollow of his most precious hands cay and Jud hickey
While we did not have the honor of knowing your father personally, we know Matthew, and we know Christ. We are lifting your entire family in prayer, asking for comfort, peace, and strength as you prepare your father for his heavenly home. May God surround you with His presence and carry you through this time.
With love and continued prayers
The Greater Augusta Arts Council Team
I knew Joe from attending St John Vianney Minor Seminary in Savannah from 1965 to 1968. He was a talented drummer, a stand up guy and a leader among his peers. He obviously carried those strengths into his career and family life. Several months age I learned of his diagnosis and placed a Facebook picture of him, holding his grandchild, above my desk to remind me to pray for him and your family. I have prayed that God’s loving presence and the love of your family and friends sustain you for the remainder of this journey. Robert
Your dad has always been such an inspiration and a blessing to me. My dad always spoke so highly of him. His example is all over this community. I am so sure he will hear our heavenly Father say, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” So glad it’s just a temporary separation for us as believers. I’m sure you and your siblings will honor him and your mother with following the example he set. You’re all in my prayers. Blessings to you and your family. To God be the glory!🙌🙏❤️
I have the honor of knowing Joe through his daughter Steph.
He was always a bright and vibrant man and I could tell that the light of God shone within him. He is a child of God, and a man of worth who is loved by many.
May God bless him and his family during this time.
Know that all of you are loved.
Great words for a great man that has helped create a great family. You seem like a writer like your dad. Please continue to do so. I miss trading your dad’s work. I know God is helping him during this difficult time.
May God wrap the Herzberg family in comfort and strength during this time, and lovingly welcome Mr. Joe into his eternal embrace. We remain grounded in our faith and united by the love in our hearts.
Joe’s presence at Salvation Army Kroc Center was a blessing to me. His calm demeanor, uplifting spirit and encouraging words comforted me during my early time there as I was in the middle of adjusting to a whole new phase of life and place! His passion and dedication to the gospel of Christ and mission of the Salvation Army is a legacy that I know will is long lasting and is something we all should be proud of!
Hey Joe
Thinking of you and Stephanie and the kids.
I wish that a simple prayer or a thought could make things better but
I don’t have that power only THE ONE TRUE GOD has that.
Thank You for being Joe! You are a special one
Bruce