Joseph Maximilian Shircliff's Obituary
Joseph Maximilian Shircliff, age 8, lovingly known as Joe, passed away surrounded by family and held by his parents on January 18, 2025, at VCU Children’s Hospital in Richmond, VA.
He will be deeply missed by his mother and father, Erin and Robert; his older brother, Nathaniel; his younger sisters, Colette and Gemma; and his grandparents, David and Kathleen Wilson, Roxanne Wold Shircliff, and Robert and Denise Shircliff. Additionally, his memory will be cherished by his 22 aunts and uncles, 25 cousins, and many friends who were like family.
Joe was born on February 5, 2016, in Spotsylvania, Virginia, the second beloved son of Robert and Erin. A third grader at Saint Patrick’s School, Joe was a joyful and active child who brought light to everyone he met. He enjoyed singing in his school choir and was a dedicated student, praised by his teachers for his kindness to all.
Joe had a passion for life and a heart full of love. He was often complimented on his vivid blue eyes and wavy sandy hair, which he took great pride in styling for Mass each week. He loved all kinds of music, as well as playing soccer, baseball, and basketball. He also enjoyed camping and fishing. Joe’s playful and mischievous spirit, combined with his kind-hearted nature, made him a friend to everyone. He adored his cousins and treasured each of them individually, always playing hard and loving fiercely.
Joe was also a proud member of Trail Life, where he embraced adventure and camaraderie. He was known for his kind heart, his silly yet sweet nature, and his ability to bring people together with his laughter and love.
Joe was deeply loved by his siblings: his 11-year-old brother Nathaniel, his best friend and constant companion; and his sisters, 4-year-old Colette and 1-year-old Gemma, whom he fiercely protected and adored. He always strived to make his father proud and to make his mother laugh. His faith in Jesus was a profound part of his life, and his joyful, funny, and loving personality left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Joe will be greeted in Heaven by his great-grandparents: Thomas and Margaret Clarke, Frederick and Joan Wilson, Colonel Robert and Merle Shircliff, Captain John and Mary Louise Wold, his great aunt and uncle Katherine and Christopher Wold, and his cousin Thomas “Boom” Clarke.
Joe’s funeral Mass will be held at Saint Patrick’s Church on Wednesday, January 29, at 11 a.m., followed by burial at the Confederate Cemetery. A viewing will be held at Found and Sons on Tuesday, January 28, from 6 to 8 p.m.
In his short but beautiful life, Joe taught us the power of love, joy, and faith. He will forever be remembered for his bright spirit and the lasting impact he made on his family, friends, and community. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Mary’s Shelter Maternity Home in Fredericksburg, Virginia.
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