Joseph James Eibner

Joseph James Eibner, age 102, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Joseph lived a long and meaningful life. Born in Buffalo, NY to Joseph and Rebekah Eibner, he grew up during the Great Depression, an experience that helped shape the character, resilience, and values he carried throughout his life.

A proud member of the United States Army Air Corp., Joseph faithfully served during World War II in the Pacific Theater, a chapter of his life he carried with both honor and humility.
Following the war, Joseph married the love of his life, Verna Rhodehouse. He attended the University at Buffalo, where he earned a master’s degree in School Administration before moving his family to Valhalla, NY to begin a distinguished career in education. Joseph devoted 30 years of his life to education as an exceptional school administrator at Columbus Avenue Elementary School in Valhalla, NY. During his tenure, he helped lead the school to become the #1-rated elementary school in the state of New York, a reflection of his leadership, dedication to students, and commitment to excellence in education.

Above all, Joseph was a man of deep and abiding faith in God’s salvation through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. His faith guided the way he lived each day — with compassion, generosity, humility, and a servant’s heart. He devoted his life to helping others, offering encouragement, support, and love to family, friends, neighbors, and all who crossed his path. His quiet example of Christian faith and service leaves a lasting legacy for generations to come.

Joseph was known for his deep love and devotion to family, steadfast faith, quiet strength, pursuit of excellence, and enduring kindness. He will be remembered for his wisdom, humility, and the steady presence he brought to all who knew and loved him.

Joseph was predeceased by his beloved wife of 56 years, Verna Rhodehouse Eibner, and by his second wife of five years, Betsy Collins Eibner.
He is survived by his children: James Eibner and his spouse Susan Eibner; John Eibner and his spouse Angela Eibner; Bonnie Robinson; and Daniel Eibner and his spouse Karole Eibner.
Joseph was the proud grandfather of nine grandchildren and was blessed with 21 great-grandchildren.

Joseph will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by his warmth, generosity, unwavering faith, and love for others.

Visitation will be held on May 28, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Brownlie-Maxwell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held on May 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Melbourne.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Melbourne.

The family appreciates the thoughts, prayers, and support extended during this time.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — Second Epistle to Timothy 4:7