BEAUFORT, SOUTH CAROLINA - Joseph Edward Thompson, 85, of Beaufort, passed away August 2, 2013. Joe, as he was affectionately known by his family and many friends, was a soft-spoken, kind and gentle man with a heart of gold. Joe is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Nell, and his devoted daughter, Kathy and his loving son-in-law, Dave. The family will receive friends from 5:30 until 7:30 o'clock Friday, August 9, 2013 at Copeland Funeral Service - One Copeland Drive. The funeral service will be held at 3 o'clock Saturday afternoon, August 10, 2013, at Shell Point Christian Church. A reception will follow the service at Mission Hall at the Church.