First Sergeant Joe Louis Scott, United States Army (Ret.), 90, of Hinesville, Georgia, transitioned into eternal life on April 16, 2026.  He was born on February 23, 1936, in Salisbury, North Carolina, to the late James Logan and Mariah Scott Logan.  He was preceded in death by sister, Loretta "Kitty" Scott Baker; and brothers, James "Dude" Logan and John "Johnnie" Logan; granddaughter, Morgan Paige Bryant; and, grandson, Sean Alexander Scott.

His early education began in the Rowan-Salisbury School System, and he graduated from J.C. Price High School in Salisbury, North Carolina.  Following graduation, Joe enlisted in the U. S. Army and retired in 1982 following a 28-year career.  During his military career, he served in Vietnam along with deployments to Korea, Germany, and at Fort Riley, Kansas; Fort Wainwright, Alaska; Fort Ord, California; Fort Lewis, Washington; Fort Hood, Texas, and Fort Stewart, Georgia.  He was a proud life member of the 11th Armored Calvary Regiment (11th ACR) - Blackhorse. Joe visited the Vietnam Memorial to honor those who served and died in the conflict. His decorations, medals, badges, citations and campaign ribbons and awards included the Bronze Star; Purple Heart with two Oak Leaf Clusters; Meritorious Service Medal; Army Commendation Medal with V Device (1st Oak Leaf Cluster); National Defense Medal; Vietnam Service Medal; Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantry Badge and many others. He preserved his uniform for burial because he loved his country and wanted to be laid to rest amongst the soldiers he lost while conducting combat operations with 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Calvary in the last battle in Vietnam from April 1971 to March 1972, as well as conducting combat operations in the 11 provinces surrounding Saigon.  On February 29, 1972, fighting the last full day of combat for the 2nd Squadron, before deactivation in March, he was wounded again, and lost a crew member who died in his arms during dustoff; he never forgot.  Joe was fearless in his call to service to the end and honored those who sacrificed it all.

Post-service, he was employed by Dykes Properties.

He married Gracie Carter Bryant on August 7, 1979.  Together, they built a life based on faith, family, love, and travel.

Most importantly, he accepted Jesus Christ as his personal savior.  He served in the Choir Ministry and was Deacon Emeritus of First Calvary Missionary Baptist Church.

He was an avid sports enthusiast and enjoyed watching golf, football, basketball, gymnastics, and track and field.  Jackie Robinson made him a lifelong Los Angeles (Brooklyn) Dodgers fan; he rallied his second favorite team, the Atlanta Braves, beaming with pride when recalling the accomplishments of Hank Aaron.  He supported the athletic teams at Bradwell Institute and Liberty County High School

Joe Louis Scott is survived by his devoted wife of 47 years, Gracie Scott, and children, Fernando (Dorothy) Scott, Latanya McLain, Tyrone Scott, Darlene Bryant, Pedro (Lydia) Bryant, Sherman (Kita) Bryant; grandchildren, Sterling Scott, Paris Scott, Alexander Scott, Denzel Scott, Yasmine Scott, Nicholas Bryant, Kaleb Bryant, Kyla Bryant, Joy Bryant, and special grandson, Bradley Price; and great-grandson, Julian Scott.  He is also survived by siblings, Phyllis Vincient, Larry (Carol) Logan, and Perry (Bernetta) Logan; and sister-in-law, Carolyn "Cookie" Logan.   He leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends who will miss him and cherish his memory.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Sprenger Healthcare, 60 Okatie Village Drive, Okatie, SC 29909, and/or First Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, 124 Rebecca Street, Hinesville, GA 31313, and P.O. Box 1371, Hinesville, GA 31310.