Jasper County Mourns the Loss of Former County Judge Joe Folk

Photos courtesy of the family of Judge Joe Folk, Jasper County Treasurer Rene’ Ellis, and retired Sheriff Billy Rowles.

Jasper County is mourning the loss of Judge Joe Folk, a longtime public servant, veteran, educator, and community leader whose decades of service left a lasting mark on the county and the region.

Jasper County Judge Mark Allen confirmed that Judge Folk passed away Thursday morning and entered “his eternal home in Heaven.”

Judge Folk served Jasper County as County Judge for three terms, but his dedication to public service extended far beyond that role. Over the years, he also served as Sheriff of Jasper County and as Superintendent of Kirbyville CISD, shaping generations of students and public servants alike.

Photos courtesy of the family of Judge Joe Folk, Jasper County Treasurer Rene’ Ellis, and retired Sheriff Billy Rowles.

A U.S. Army veteran, Judge Folk was deeply committed to honoring those who served in the armed forces. More than 50 years ago, while teaching at Kirbyville High School, he established the school’s Veterans Day Program—a tradition that continues to this day. Judge Folk moderated the program annually, even after retiring from the school system and later county government. When his health no longer allowed him to take an active role, he still attended in support of his fellow veterans.

Judge Folk was also a devoted Mason and a faithful servant in that capacity. Known as a devout Christian, friends and colleagues say his faith was evident in both his words and his actions. “He loved his God, he loved his family, and he loved this Nation,” Judge Allen said.

In addition to his local service, Judge Folk served a term as president of the Deep East Texas Council of Governments board, where he was a strong advocate for regional cooperation and progress.

Even after retiring from county government, Judge Folk continued answering the call to serve, stepping in whenever asked to assist on committees focused on improving the quality of life for Jasper County residents.

“Judge Folk was born to be a public servant on this Earth,” Judge Allen said. “We know that God has plans for his loyal service in Heaven today.”

County officials are asking the community to keep Judge Folk’s wife and family in their prayers during this time, offering comfort in the knowledge that he is no longer in pain.

“We thank the family of Judge Folk for allowing him to serve the citizens of Jasper County for so many decades,” Allen said. “Jasper County is better because of his love and dedication.”