Joel Dean Grieves, a beloved son, brother, grandson, cousin, and friend, passed away on July 23, 2026, at the age of 13 due to complications of ZC4H2 Associated Rare Disorders. Though his life was far too short, it was filled with love, laughter, and immeasurable blessings. Joel was born on February 15, 2013.

He is survived by his loving parents, Megan and Kyle Grieves; his younger brother, Leo; paternal grandparents Jane and Kevin Grieves; maternal grandparents Gail and Gerard Boynton; ten aunts and uncles; eleven cousins; and many other extended family members who cherished him.

He was preceded in death by his great-grandparents Alex and Marjorie Grieves, Luke and Patricia Braxmeyer, Jack and Pearl Boynton, and Wallace and Barbara Luffman.

To know Joel was to know unconditional love. Despite facing extraordinary challenges throughout his young life, his strength and spirit deepened the faith of everyone around him. His presence was a gift—a gentle reminder of God's grace and love. Through his courage, Joel drew people closer to God and to one another, leaving a lasting mark on the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Joel shared his joyful spirit through his distinct, infectious laugh and his genuine love of music. Disney songs and church music brought him tremendous joy, and he was not shy about letting everyone know what he liked. Beyond music, Joel enjoyed life's simple pleasures; delighting in The Nutcracker, lounging in the hot tub, enjoying his days at school, spending time with his cousins, and feeling the thrill of roller coasters. In each of these moments, he brought warmth and happiness to his family and everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A rosary will be said on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 5:30 p.m., at McCullough Funeral Home, with a memorial gathering following from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral Mass will take place on Friday, July 31, at Sacred Heart Church in Warner Robins at 10:00 a.m., followed by the placement of his ashes in the church's columbarium. The family invites memorial contributions to the ZC4H2 Research Foundation in Joel's honor (https://www.zc4h2foundation.org/donate/).

Those attending the services are invited to wear blue to celebrate Joel's life.

McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.