Obituary of Joseph O'Neal Christopher

Joe Christopher, an Original Met, departed this world on October 3, 2023 at the age of 88 due to complications from a stroke. Joe was a beloved figure in the world of baseball, leaving an indelible mark on the New York Mets franchise and the sport as a whole. Joseph O'Neal Christopher ("Joe") was born on February 2, 1935 in Frederiksted, St. Croix, USVI. He was born to Sarah Richards Christopher, a housewife and Patrick Christopher Sr., an overseer of a mango grove and sugar cane plantation at Estate Oxford on the island. Joe was the youngest of 6 children. He is predeceased by his parents, and siblings Elizabeth, Patrick Christopher Jr., Augustus (died in infancy), Agnes Christopher Galloway and Alfred Christopher Sr. Joe's baseball journey began as a child. He dreamed of playing in the major leagues and often exclaimed that "I am not going to stay on the island and cut sugar cane! I am going to be a major league baseball player!" He played high school baseball at St. Patrick's Parochial School in Frederiksted. After high school he played shortstop for the Christiansted Commandos. He travelled to Wichita, Kansas with brother Alfred, Julio Navarro and Elmo Plaskett representing the team. He caught the eye of Pirates scout Howie Haak and the rest was history. Joe was signed to the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1959 as shortstop and outfielder. He was fondly known as Hurryin' Joe. He could run the 60-yard dash in 6.6 seconds. His major league debut was on May 26, 1959 with the Pirates. The next year he went on to win the 1960 World Series with the Championship Pirates in 7 games against the New York Yankees. He spent 3 years with the Pirates. He was roommates and good friends with fellow Pirate, Roberto Clemente. They often spent time together being the only two Spanish speaking members of the team and both living in Puerto Rico. Joe was signed to the New York Mets in 1961, just a year before the teams' inaugural season in 1962 making Joe an Original Met. In 1964, he batted .300, with 16 home runs, 76 runs batted in (RBI), 78 runs, 163 hits, 26 doubles and 8 triples in 154 games, all career highs. He had his career best day on August 19, 1964 with two triples, a double and a homer in an 8-6 win over his former team the Pittsburgh Pirates. Joe played Winter League Baseball in the Puerto Rican Leagues. He was a part of a championship team with the Mayaguez Indios in 1962-63, 67-68 and 68-69. With the Indios he won four stolen base titles and holds numerous records. Joe was later traded to the Boston Red Sox in 1966 where his Major League Baseball career ended. He continued to play in the Puerto Rican Winter Leagues through the 1968-69 season. He played his final season in 1972 in Mexico. Joe held a distinguished place in baseball and sports history marked by numerous firsts and records. Joe was the first person from the U.S. Virgin Islands to start in a major league game of any sport. As one of the original Mets, he was part of an inaugural roster of the New York Mets in 1962, making history as one of the first players to wear the iconic uniform. He is also the first Met to hit a .300 batting average. Beyond his contributions on the field, Joe Christopher was a beloved member of the baseball community. His warm personality, dedication to the game, and humility inspired all who had the privilege of knowing him. He remained an ambassador of the sport long after his playing days, mentoring young talents and promoting the values of sportsmanship. Joe served as a cherished and trusted advisor to many consulting on spirituality, metaphysics, nutrition, herbs and numerology. Joe Christopher's legacy extends far beyond the diamond. He leaves behind a loving family, cherished friends and a loyal fan base that will forever remember him as a true New York Mets legend. Joe leaves behind 5 daughters, Cheryl, Jo Anne, Michelle (Carlos), Arinna (Rogello) and Kameahle (Larry). Four sons, Joseph Jr. (Leah), Rael (Pamela) and Ryan. He leaves behind 14 grandchildren, Jose, Lyanne, Christian, Sherita, Anna, Aubrey, Alyssa, Alene, Natalie, Christopher, Alexander, James, Rhyann, McKenna. He leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews and long-time friends that will cherish his memories, sacrifices and contributions. A viewing will be held on Sunday, October 15, 2023 from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Vaughn Greene Funeral Services, 8728 Liberty Road, Randallstown, MD 21133. On Monday, October 16, 2023, a service of celebration will be held at the Vaughn Greene Chapel at Randallstown, 8728 Liberty Road, where the family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. with services to follow. The interment service will be held at the Druid Ridge Cemetery.