Joe V. Cleaves, Sr., 81, KCMO, passed away on April 1, 2017 at the Kansas City Hospice House. He was born November 27, 1935 in Caruthersville, Missouri to the late Armstead Cleaves and Thelma Haliburton. His daughter, Rosetta Cleaves; brothers, Freddy Cleaves, William Cleaves, Sonny Cleaves and sister, Edna Barnes all preceded him in death. Joe was educated in the public schools of both Caruthersville, Missouri and Charleston, Missouri where he attended Lincoln High School. After relocating to the Kansas City he was employed at Douglas Battery Company for a number of years until he retired. Joe enjoyed the outdoors, often hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed traveling as a pastime. He loved sports, particularly watching football and baseball. Joe was united in marriage to the former Ms. Annie Pryor who also preceded him in death. He truly loved his family and will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. He leaves to cherish his memory: one son, Joe V. Cleaves, Jr. (Jada Todd); one daughter, Pamela Bell (Kenny); one brother, A.C. Cleaves of Caro, IL; four grandchildren, Michael Cleaves (Veronica), Nicole Bell, LaKisha Cleaves, and Ashlee Todd; fourteen great grandchildren and a host of nephews, nieces, other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be Saturday, April 8, 2:00 p.m. at Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Interment Blue Ridge Lawn Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be from 1:00-2:00 p.m. at the chapel. Services conducted by Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on our website.