Joseph Henry Jackson died peacefully Monday morning at his home, surrounded by his family, in the Kendal Continuing Care Community in Lexington, Virginia, after suffering a broken neck in a severe fall.

He was 90 years old.

Joe was born and raised in Rockaway, New Jersey.

Like so many of his generation, he fought in World War II. He was a B-24 bomber pilot, based in southern Italy. He and his crew flew 50 missions over enemy front lines.

When peace came, Joe returned to college at Syracuse University to complete the requirements for his degree in architecture. It was there that he met his future wife. They soon married and settled in Basking Ridge, New Jersey and raised four children.

Joe commuted to New York for his earliest architectural job. He cherished the opportunity to work on the United Nations buildings. After opening his own practice, he continued to explore his great love for modern design. At the same time, his appreciation grew for historic older buildings, brass hardware, and steam heating systems that frequently offered clicking and banging sounds.

He had a deep appreciation for the little things in life, from a finely made screw, to a perfect piece of toast or a warm snuggle with the family dog or cat.

There will be no services at this time.

Arrangements are being handled by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory, Lexington, VA.