Dr. Joseph Back was born March 14, 1920 and departed this life Wednesday, October 19, 2011 reaching the age of 91. He was the son of the late William Martin and Mary (Goddard) Back.

He was united in marriage to Oneida Blanche (Skinner)Back and to this union 5 children were born.

He is survived by: 3 sons, Van Back and Edward Back both of Monticello, KY, and Jim Back of Versailles, KY; 2 daughters, Kim Aspley of Peachtree City, GA and DeLana Adkins of Frankfort, KY; 8 grandchildren, Jeremy Back, Laura Back, Tauna Aspley, Lizz Aspley, Alex Aspley, Joseph Back, Olivia Back, and Katie Jo Adkins; and 2 great grandchildren, Eli Back and Gus Back; along with a host of family and friends who mourn his passing.

In addition to his parents, Martin and Mary Back, he was preceded in death by: his wife, Blanche Back; 3 brothers, Sydney, Tom, and Jack Back; and 3 sisters, Lucy Breeding, Laura Ford, and Alta Lusk.

Dr. Back was a Navy Veteran who served his country faithfully during WWII. He was a long-time optometrist in Monticello, where he also served as a volunteer firefighter. He was a member and deacon of the First Christian Church in Monticello. He was civic minded serving as chairman of the Housing Authority, a member of the Lions Club, and other local organizations.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 22, 2011 from 12 noon until 3 pm in the chapel of the funeral home. Funeral services will be held Saturday, October 22, 2011 at 3pm at the Marvin S. Hicks Funeral Home with Bro. Harlan Ogle and Bro. Joe Tipton officiating. Burial will be in Elk Spring Cemetery. Military honors will be performed by DAV Chapter 105.