Joseph Leon Sloan's Obituary
Joseph Leon Sloan, the third and youngest child of Thomas Wade Sloan, Sr. and Delores Marie Sloan, was born on March 25, 1957 in Washington, D.C. He attended public schools in NE D.C. While in high school he was actively involved in a community youth baseball league. At an early age he was baptized and regularly attended New Bethany Baptist Church.
Joseph joined the Army National Guard in 1975, but ultimately enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1976. Part of his military service included an overseas tour of duty in Okinawa, Japan. He returned to Washington D.C. upon his honorable discharge in 1979. Shortly after his return, he began employment with the federal government, working briefly as a correctional officer at The Lorton Correctional Complex before becoming employed at The Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Washington, D.C. The flag flown over Walter Reed on July 1, 2020 was presented to Joseph with honor for the completion of 40 years of service upon his retirement.
In his early life, Joseph was married to Gloria Morgan. Together they welcomed a cherished son Joseph Leon Sloan, Jr., who tragically preceded them both in death. Gloria has now also passed away, but the union they shared as parents remained a significant chapter of his life. Joseph was also preceded in death by his father Thomas Wade Sloan, Sr., his sister Janice Moore and his stepfather Allen Ross.
He is survived by his beloved mother and sacred lifeline, Delores Ross; his big brother, Thomas Sloan, Jr., who became his dedicated guardian and loving caregiver until the very end; and his favorite sister-in-law Joyce Sloan. Additionally he is survived by his second wife, Halima Dark. Even after their marriage ended, they shared a deep lasting bond and Joseph had her unwavering support through his final days. Also left to cherish his memory are his step sisters Connie Ross. Wendy Betsill and Christina Steward; 6 nephews, 2 nieces, 15 first cousins and a host of other relatives and friends.
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