Joseph “Joe” Anthony McQuade Jr., 71, of Houston, Texas, passed away on October 10, 2025 at M.D. Anderson from complications arising from pancreatic cancer. He was with his wife and sister.

Joe was born on July 6, 1954 in Fort Worth, Texas to Eleanor and Joe McQuade. He graduated from Castleberry High School in 1972, and graduated from the University of Texas in 1976 with degrees in Journalism and American Studies.

Joe married his high school sweetheart Rae in 1974. He worked as a journalist, writer, city planner, and chartered boat captain. He and his sister Valerie ran a sailboat charter company in the Caribbean. He loved newspapers and considered it an honor to work as a reporter for the Houston Chronicle, among other newspapers.

He was known for his quick wit and smiles, love of politics and debating; football, BBQ and smoking; bourbon tastings and happy hours, and all things related to water, beaches and sailing. He loved the English language – a clever turn of phrase, a well-made argument, a thoughtful article. His curiosity never waned and he was an inveterate optimist on life. He had an unwavering love for his wife Rae and sister Val, and loved and enjoyed the companionship of many friends.