Joseph Edward Short, 53, of Cabot, died Friday, February 21, 2020. He was born March 12, 1966 in Kansas City, Kansas to Elizabeth Betty Lalley Short and the late Thomas Leahy Short, Jr. Mr. Short was a C-130 engine mechanic in the United States Air Force and retired after 22 years of service. After retirement, he was instrumental in helping to found "Feed the Vets" food pantry and worked to help and council veterans with PTSD. He was able to speak his mind, but council with a soft touch. He also enjoyed refurbishing and refinishing antique guns and furniture. Joseph was a father figure to all of his extended family, but was especially proud and loving toward his children and grandchildren. In addition to his father, Mr. Short was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Howard J. Gatton.

Mr. Short is survived by his wife of 33 years, Joyce Gatton Short; his children, Bethany Wyles (Andrew) of Gosnell and Carolyn Short (David) of Beebe; his mother, Elizabeth Betty Lalley Short; siblings, Patrick Short (Monica), Michael Short (Barbara) and Timothy Short; grandchildren, Gracie Koel, Keaghan Koel, Adaleigh Koel, Rori Wyles, Liam Wyles and Bexley Wyles; mother-in-law, Jacqueline Joyce Gatton of Kansas City, Missouri; four sisters-in-law; three brothers-in-law; 15 nieces and nephews and his military family.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, February 28, 2020 in the chapel of Thomas Funeral Service with Brother Chuck Ball officiating. Burial will be at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. Friday, prior to the service. Arrangements by Thomas Funeral Service, 501-941-7888.