He came to us from Christchurch School in Christchurch, Va., where he played football and was active in student government. At Princeton Joe majored in English and dined at Quadrangle. Following graduation he worked for two years in the trust division of a large regional bank. He then entered law school, graduating from Washington and Lee University in 1967. Practicing law for 25 years, he retired in 1996 as a partner in the firm of Plunkett and Logan.
Beyond the law his interests were quite varied. A talented musician, Joe played the mandolin, piano, and guitar and for some 60 years was a mentor to many young musicians, especially in his own family. He also gave his time and intellect serving on the boards of Opera Roanoke, Garth Newel Music Center, and Poplar Forest, Thomas Jefferson’s second home, plus other nonprofits. Genealogy was another passion, and he spent many hours researching and documenting his family history. Joe will be remembered for his patience, kindness, honesty, and generosity.
Joe is survived by his wife of 50 years, Laura; children Anna, Beverley, and Joseph Dandridge IV; and six grandchildren. The class extends condolences to them all.