Pro-Life Leader Joe E. Mortimer Passes Away
by Staff
July 5, 2011
PHILADELPHIA, , (christiansunite.com) -- Joseph E. Mortimer, Jr. of Philadelphia, PA, the longtime, iconic, pro-life activist leader who founded and served as publisher of the Voices for the Unborn newspaper for nearly three decades, was called home to the Lord on Friday, July 1, 2011 at the age of 80. VFTU had subscribers and distributors nationwide and in eleven countries.Joe is survived by his wife, Barbara, their sons and daughters, Joseph 'Joey' Mortimer III, Jim Mortimer, Douglas Mortimer, Barbara 'Barbie' Bjorn and Kathy Petrie; and sisters Peggy Venticinque and Phyllis Bailey. Joe Mortimer was co-owner and proprietor of Select Jewelers in Feasterville, PA, the proceeds of which substantially underwrote VFTU and many other pro-life endeavors.
Joe Mortimer served as host of the Voices for the Unborn radio (WISP 1570AM) and TV programs (ION/Comcast). He also compiled and published a directory of 6,000 pro-life organizations. Mortimer's article "The Seventeen Percent Factor," in which he pointed out the connection between abortion and reports by automobile manufactures and other businesses of drops in sales of "seventeen percent," opened the eyes of many Americans to the disastrous economic consequences that 50,000,000 abortions has had upon America. Mr. Mortimer also achieved the uncommon distinction of becoming a Fourth Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus.
Joe Mortimer was one of those rare individuals who gave more than he received - and left behind more than what he arrived with. Although we will miss him until our reunion in Christ's kingdom, Joe's legacy lives on, and soldiers on, in the multitude of three generations of pro-lifers whom Joe educated, informed, and inspired. He will hear his Lord say unto him, "Well done, good and faithful servant... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord. (Matthew 25:23)"
We can be sure that, as Joe Mortimer entered the Gates of Heaven and walked towards the Eternal Throne, the golden street was lined with millions of babies, applauding and cheering: "Hello, Joe! You've loved us; now come hug us."
Viewing (9:30AM) and Mass (10:30AM) will be held at St. Christopher's RCC, 13301 Proctor Rd, Somerton, PA 19116, on Wednesday, July 6.
Condolences can be sent to the addresses below. Interested persons are advised to web-search obituaries in Philadelphia-area newspapers on 7/5 to confirm final details.
VOICES FOR THE UNBORN: www.voicesfortheunborn.com
