Eric Joseph, 54, Cleveland Ohio, passed away in the early morning of Monday, August 31 st , 2026. Eric was born on March 16, 1972 to Ronald and Pauline Joseph in Cleveland, Ohio. Eric is a loved son, brother, friend, uncle, cousin, teacher. Eric is beloved in the community of individuals with special needs. He was actively involved with the Special Olympics and many other recreational and community activities. He speed skated, he lifted weights, he swam, he played bocce ball, he ran track, he played golf, he bowled, he rode horses. Eric’s biggest cheerleaders while competing could be heard in the stands. He proudly stood with medals draped around his neck. Eric was an Olympic athlete. He was his sister, Nancy’s greatest companion and the joy of mom & dad. Ron, Paul, and Mary Beth each have memories of poignant, memorable times with their brother. The relationship with his father grew exponentially into a positive, fierce love for one another. Eric was actually an influencer before it became a thing. He was the OG. Tune into “The Eric Joseph Show” (do yourself a favor…look it up on You Tube…2 seasons / 11 episodes). The activities / events that brought Eric immense joy were: Toby Keith concerts, WWE wrestling, participating in the Buddy Walk, S.O.A.R. (Sports Opportunities & Active Recreation), live music, getting haircuts, travel, picnics, cookouts, being by the water, going to the movies, going on car rides especially with Nancy, making other people laugh; he didn’t like to see people sad, he liked attention & accolades, dancing, long/quiet walks in his younger years, going to Browns/Cavs/Indians games, hugs, kisses, high fives, shaving, showering, Polo (Not the sport), ChapStick, sunglasses, hats (he was a collector of many items). But, most importantly he was a collector of hearts. The last several years, Eric was intrigued by the concept of partnership. He was curious about people’s relationship to one another, especially if they were married, if they were a couple. Eric captured the hearts of many. Eric was one of the most loyal people you will ever meet. Eric was the epitome of love. From the start, Westlake Developmental Center was instrumental in making Eric strong and capable in his youth. Then came Brooklyn Adult Activity Center. Eric was a very capable and proud landscaper for many years. Cuyahoga County (Department of Developmental Disabilities) was integral toward engaging Eric into the community creating opportunities and experiences. These proved challenging, stellar, and everything in between. The best part is that Eric had the chance. Thank you to everyone who helped to create these opportunities for Eric! Various day programs then followed. Each of these programs offered something special for Eric. They brought out the best in him and recognized Eric’s natural gifts. According to God’s plan, Eric’s last day program was INNER PEACE (known to Eric as “Butterfly”). Wow!! Thank you, to Eric’s INNER PEACE family!!
Eric was preceded in death by his father (Ronald Joseph). He is survived by his mom (Pauline), sister, Mary Beth (Patrick), brothers, Ron & Paul (Brandi), and sister, Nancy. Nieces and nephews include: Dominic, Sean, Patricia, Grace, Sarah, and Augustus.
A visitation will be held Thursday, September 3, 2026 from 2 – 4 PM & 6 – 8 PM at DONLON FUNERAL HOME 15408 TRISKETT RD. CLEVE., Funeral Mass Friday September 4th at 10AM at St, Mel Church 14436 Triskett Rd. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery.