Joseph Franklin “Sonny” Paxson Jr., a proud Marine, dedicated public servant, and beloved friend to all who knew him, departed from this life on October 6, 2026, at the age of 81. Although known to those who loved him as the true life of the party and larger-than-life figure, Sonny’s life was defined by service, strength, and a fierce devotion to helping anyone in need. He leaves behind a legacy that will live on through the many lives he touched.

Born on November 10, 1944 in Washington, D.C., Sonny was the son of the late Joseph F. Paxson Sr. and the late Yolanda “Vi” Morrison. Raised in Mississippi, he graduated from Carthage High School in 1964, beginning a journey that would lead him to serve his country and his community with honor.

On February 28, 1966, Sonny enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, answering the call to serve his nation. In June of 1967, he deployed to Vietnam, where he served for 13 months during a challenging and defining period in American history. His military service reflected his courage, commitment, and willingness to stand alongside his fellow Marines in the face of adversity. He continued to serve in his beloved Corps until his honorable discharge in June of 1972. His time in uniform was a truly important chapter in a life marked by dedication to duty and a deep passion for service.

Sonny continued his commitment to protecting and serving others through a career with the Jackson Police Department. He devoted decades of service to the people of our capital city before finally retiring from law enforcement in 1990. Whether serving his country overseas or working to protect his community at home, Sonny demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the people who depended on him. His years of service stand as a testament and reflection of the values he continued to carried throughout his life.

Sonny was also a proud father to Scott, Kimberly, Mikey, and Nikki, who will forever carry his memory in their hearts. He also leaves behind a host of beloved grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and dear friends whose lives were made richer by having known him.

Preceding him in death are his father, Joseph F. Paxson Sr.; his mother, Yolanda “Vi” Morrison; and his sisters, Carolyn R. “Totsie” Rizzo and Yolanda M. “Penny” Arkett. He is survived by his sister, Mary T. “Teri” Smekel, and his brother, Michael G. Paxson, along with his children, grandchildren, extended family, and many cherished friends.

Friendship and family were indeed one and the same through Sonny’s eyes. The life he lived serves as a reminder that a person’s true impact is measured not only by what they accomplish, but also by the love they give, the lives they touch, and the memories they leave behind. Though his passing leaves a space that can never truly be filled, his spirit will remain alive in the stories shared, countless memories reminisced upon, and the love deeply woven into the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, Musgrove Funeral Home 15823 Highway 37, Taylorsville, MS 39168 from 1:00 to 3:00. Interment will be private. The Musgrove family is honored to serve the Paxson family and to be entrusted with Mr. Paxson’s arrangements.