Obituary of Joe Laquinn McPherson, Sr.

Mr. Joe Laquinn McPherson Sr commonly known as Quinn or Gibb passed away unexpectedly April 17, 2021. He was born October 3, 1967 in Kalamazoo, MI, which he was a lifelong resident. He was the son of Louis Anderson and Losie Mcpherson. Joe dedicated his life to Christ at an early age and attended church services at Second Baptist Church. He graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School in 1985 and attended Kalamazoo Valley Community College where he studied Construction and Business management. Joe met his wife and soul mate Laurie (Stafford) McPherson in 1985 and during their 36 year journey they became the proud parents of two children Joe Laquinn McPherson Jr. and Amber Laquondra (Ralph) Jones. They were successful entrepreneurs and the perfect definition of true love and commitment; this was made ever more present when they exchanged wedding vows on October 2, 1993. Joe was employed with Summit Polymers since March of 1992 and had a stellar employment record. During his 29 year tenure with the company he only missed one day of work and received several awards for attendance and service that speaks volumes of his dedication and commitment. While being employed with Summit Polymers he opened the ever infamous neighborhood convenience store J&A in 1996 there by making this the only black owned convenience store in the city of Kalamazoo he ran the business alongside his wife and father. Joe's commitment to success and perseverance set him as an influential pillar of the community and a visual of black excellence for many in the neighborhood. Old and young alike loved being in the presence of "Big Gibb" to hear him drop jewels and let it be known that no matter where you come from you are the determining factor of where you go and who you become. Joe was a charismatic, genuine, humble, and loving man he enjoyed grilling, cracking jokes and spending time with family and friends. Gibb had an infectious laugh that was a perfect match to his personality. He especially enjoyed spending time with his nephew Martell where he took the time to build a beautiful bond in which Martell referred to him as "Dada." Joe was preceded in death by; Losie McPherson (Mother) Terry McPherson (Brother) Johnnie Stafford (Mother-in-law) Leonard E. Stafford Sr. (Father in law). Joe leaves to cherish his memory his wife Laurie McPherson; children Joe McPherson Jr. and Amber (Ralph) Jones; Louis Anderson (Father); Alaya Ann McPherson (Granddaughter) Siblings: Johnny McPherson, Eddie (Robin) McPherson, Relenal (Regenia) McPherson all of Kalamazoo MI, Janelle McPherson, Dennis (Cheryl) McPherson and Kenny McPherson all of Atlanta, GA. His God Children Saint Hankerson Jr. and Azariah Sykes and his very special nephew Martell "Mar Mar" Clopton along with a host of family and friends. To know Gibb was to love him with all his charming ways, he just had a way about him that would brighten up your days. We shall miss him daily, but we know he is in better care and one day when we rise and gain our wings, he will be waiting at the gates to once again welcome us with his peacefulness and love