Melinda Mayo

Friday, May 27, 2016

I'm sorry that I had not heard of Mr. Joel's passing until today. I was not one of his students, but met him when I competed in Arkansas Junior Miss in 1983. After choreographing an opening number for us, he asked me if I was a dancer. I was so excited he had noticed me and I'll never forget it. He spent his life making young people feel good.

Many years later he became a big fan of KATV Daybreak, and sent me many messages to say he enjoyed the show. Sadly, I was trying to call him today to say hello when I learned of his death. He'll always have a fond place in my heart and in many others, I know. My prayers are with his family.

Melnda Mayo
KATV

Linda Bowman Ring

Wednesday, May 11, 2016

I can't imagine there is a better dancing teacher where he is now and I know the dancers that predeceased him are all in class, along with Tommy Scott, kicking up a heel and dancing to Tommy's wonderful piano playing! We will so miss Mr. Joel; he was a wonderful man and friend to us all. I hardly remember a day that I attended class, that my mother, Joreece, and Joel weren't talking about props for the coming recital - she so loved helping him make those for his dance recitals. That's a memory that so warms my heart! So so sorry for your loss, Hila.

Andrea Steely Buford

Saturday, April 30, 2016

Thank you, Mr. Joel, for all you taught me when I was younger. Some of my fondest memories are from your studio, and you would be happy to know that I'm still friends with many of the "girls" I met from your classes. You helped to make us all better, stronger, independent, and gracious young ladies and men. Bless you and your family, especially Miss Hila. May you rest in peace.

Jack Lee

Saturday, April 30, 2016

Our thoughts and prayers are with Aunt Hila and all the dancers and friends whose lives "Papa Joel" touched.
All our love, Jack, Michelle, April and Kadie Lee (cousins)

Fred, Donna, Allison & Taylor Oates

Friday, April 29, 2016

Miss Hila, We are all so sorry for your loss. Taylor and I so loved coming to the studio and visiting with you while Allison had her class with Joel. The last time we saw Joel was at the State Fair Talent Competition in 2009 when Taylor won! Joel was so warm and friendly to us every time we saw him, as were you. We will always remember him. Love, Donna

Alice Ruth Dover Lytle

Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Hila I was so sorry to read about Joel, I have fond memories of him visiting his Grandma Weathers in Melbourne, my friend Janet Dixon and I would go down and visit, we sat on the porch, in the swing and talked. Later when he would make the newspapers with his achievements, I would send him a note and he always replied with such humility. I know he was SOOO good to you. You are in my prayers.

Cindy Nelson

Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Ms. Hila , I remember Joel from when I was growing up in Guion and Janet was my friend. He was always so very sweet. I also remember the time he danced at the Guion School. I know you will miss him much.

Patty Hale Voss

Sunday, April 24, 2016

Mr Joel...wow how you will be missed!! I spent so many years taking dance lessons on 12th street...I can't even count! He was always so kind and was such a true Gentleman. My mom used to make a special balogne dip that he loved. In fact the last time I saw him was at her funeral. This leaves a huge hole in the dance world and in the contributions he made in Arkansas. Deepest sympthay to Miss Hila. Prayers for all the family & friends.

Leanna Crow

Sunday, April 24, 2016

I love you Mr. Joel and am so grateful for the many years of dancing you gave me. I wish so badly I could be at your service and dance in your magnificent finale one last time. I would give almost anything for that opportunity (except the thirteen hour drive it would cost me). Thank you for being you and being such a good influence to me and my whole family.

Alissa willett Bloch

Sunday, April 24, 2016

Mr. Joel was a man that helped to shape my childhood. I learned from the best about dance , but also learned much more. I learned that he held me accountable for my actions (practicing dance lessons), I learned you keep your promised and you always smile even if you forget a step. For 16 years, I walked through his doors on Mondays with a hug and tap shoes in hand.The best of friendships were created there and I am forever blessed to have loved this man. You are deeply missed. You impacted my family and myself more than you will know.

Mary Sue Estes

Saturday, April 23, 2016

I was so saddened Miss Hila to hear of Joel's passing. I knew him as a little boy when you visited with your parents because we lived next door to them. I always enjoyed him when you came to Melbourne, and heard bits and pieces of his remarkable career through the years from my mother, Goldie. I was so proud of his accomplishments in his chosen career because he felt like family to me.

Katherine Novak

Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Hila--I am so sorry for your loss. I've kept up with Joel's career for years--via my mother, Anna Lee Estes Bush, and via news articles. Mama spoke highly of him. I met him a few times and always wished I could dance like him! He was so loved-- as is attested by all the wonderful tributes.

Thinking of you.

Kathy Bush Novak

Debra Whittecar

Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Mr Joel I'm very saddened to hear of your passing. I was his student in tap for 2 years , It brings back the memories of Mr Tommy and the recitals. I loved tap and you tried to persuade me not to quit. You always called me your girl. And I'm sure you called everyone that , but, it made me feel special. You will be sorely missed, and I will think of you when I hear Downtown Strutters Ball . You'll be doing step ball change in heaven . love u Mr Joel.

Brandon Bassett

Monday, April 18, 2016

We had great times in class with Mr. Joel for over a decade. He was a blessing to thousands and thousands of kids & families & will be forever remembered as such. Godspeed my friend.

Joan Rateliff

Monday, April 18, 2016

Mr. Joel there are so many wonderful memories that are all so special. The recitals were always like a "Broadway Show" Mr. Tommy with live orchestra, who else had that? You always brought out the best in everyone. I remember the year you had a workshop in Atlanta area, Sloan our daughter signed up to take some classes with you, she said " this is the best year of my life" seeing Mr. Joel. She was telling me how you had to sit in a chair and do step for instructor to teach class. We all have lost a real treasure, with much love & prayers for Ms. Hilda

Brian Sanders

Monday, April 18, 2016

Mr. Joel you will be sorely missed by all of us. One of the kindest most generous, thoughtful men I knew. I will miss you. Thank you for everything. You were a blessing in my life. Prayers to all you have left behind. R.I.P.

Jade R.

Monday, April 18, 2016

Mr. Joel was so much more than just my tap teacher. He was a mentor, teacher, friend, and even like a grandfather. He cared so deeply about all his students and their families. He always had a smile on his face, a spring in his step and a song in his heart. I quit dancing long before I should and I kick myself for not continuing. I use to love dressing in the fancy costumes and putting on the gobs of blue eyeshadow and red lip stick. My favorite one was a neon colored stripped tutu and at one point the lights went out and we were dancing with black lights on. I also loved going to the zoo to preform and going to nursing homes. Mr. Joel was an inspriation to us all. He will be greatly missed by the huge number of people he has touched.

Renae Rapier Oldner

Monday, April 18, 2016

The Angels with their wings and halo's are now complete. Now when I hear the beautiful sounds of taps, I will know that Mr. Joel has one more angel in his senior line. The years of dance, the trips to Memphis and New York, and yes as an adult even a trip to Dallas, to dance, dance, dance! The joy and tears were always for the greater good of a young lady. I feel honored to have danced with Mr Tommy playing the piano. These are memories that forever will remain a part of who I am. Ms. Ruminer, my prayers are with you, for you are the reason we all shared in Joel's love of dance.

Lissa Gill Pray

Sunday, April 17, 2016

I met Joel at 3 years old in 1966 and took tap from him and Alva Jean Morgan for 6 years and will always cherish the memories of innocence and pure joy. I remember your beautiful mother also and Mr. Tommy playing the piano. Thanks for the memories and for all your love you shared with all your students. RIP

Ernest R Hooten

Sunday, April 17, 2016

Joel, was a schoolmate at East Side Jr. H.S.
While most of our classmates were Arkie's for life, Joel not only excelled here but also in the Theaters in large cities in the USA.
Joel trained nearly all of the dancers I was ever aware of and loved and taught them. He will be well remembered by all of his students and certainly by his students, he always gave them 110% effort and expected it of them, all he asked was to learn to your God Given talents.
He will be missed in the entertainment community and more.
More than most he was always a Gentleman and gracious to everyone.
E.R. Hooten

Jennifer Maddox

Sunday, April 17, 2016

Joel used his talents in teaching dance to make a difference in young students and their families. I had the pleasure of teaching for him and I witnessed the positive influence he had on many lives.

Jeanenne Vowell

Sunday, April 17, 2016

To my friend, teacher, family friend. You are and will be missed. Love you much! From the top!

Paula Smith

Saturday, April 16, 2016

I came to know Joel thru our studios work for Roller Chenal Funeral Home. He always greeted us with the brightest smile always calling me by name. He went to school with my late husband, Wayne Smith. he will be greatly missed by so many. RIP Joel

Barbara Anderson

Saturday, April 16, 2016

My heart is so sad to know that Joel is no longer with us. He was such a kind soul and a wonderful son to his precious mother. I will cherish the conversations we shared.

Kathie osborne

Saturday, April 16, 2016

We all loved Mr. Joel and he will be missed terribly. I took tap from him as an adult but my kids took from him as well as 2 of my grandchildren. I also taught for him at the two studios. RIP Me Joel. Always remember it don't mean a thing if it don't have that swing .

Jo Beth. Hudgens

Saturday, April 16, 2016

Mr. Joel you were so very special to me and my family. We loved you and Mrs. Ruminer so much and I will ever forget your sweet spirit ! Thank you for giving Bethany dance lessons and giving me the chance to visit with Mrs. Ruminer each week before others got there! I know that there is a lot of TAP DANCING in Heaven !!!

Becky Jane Czech rinchuso

Saturday, April 16, 2016

My prayers to Mrs Ruminer - I had a lot of memories of Joel since I started dance @3yrs Rest in peace.

Bradi Cozart

Saturday, April 16, 2016

The words cannot express the heartache I have right now...your impact in my life is so relevant! I still cant stop crying. You taught me my joy, you showed me a world that little girls only dreamed of. If You imagined it...It Came To Life!!! I spent my entire life watching and learning. Laughing, smiling and being amazed at the miracles you seem to always make happen. Your love, your devotion, your compassion to everyone, was just the start of something brilliant! Thank you for always being there for me and raising me into the woman I am today. I promise to make you proud Mr. Joel!! And I love you with all my heart...goodbye

Joan Rateliff

Saturday, April 16, 2016

Mr. Joel, there are so many wonderful memories during the years my daughter Sloan took tap from you. Great recitals, like a Broadway production with live orchestra back in the day with Mr. Tommy. You always strived for the best! Thanks for the memories.
With love & prayers for Ms. Hilda

Susan Holder Gillespie

Saturday, April 16, 2016

Until we meet again old friend, dance with the angels while "Mr. Tommy" grins and plays.

Russell Adams

Saturday, April 16, 2016

Joel was a great family friend to me & my parents, Jim & Virginia Adams. sympathy & condolences to Miss Hila , & the Lee family.

Peyton Bishop

Friday, April 15, 2016

Joel was a wonderful friend and a magnificent inspiration to a multitude of young people. He was always generous with his time and talent in helping various organizations in their endeavors. His legacy lives on in the endowment in his name for dance at UALR. He will be missed by many. There will never be anyone to compare with 'Mr. Joel'!

Kelly Vroman Morgan

Friday, April 15, 2016

Mr. Joel was an amazing teacher! I will never forget the day I moved from Cammack to 12th Street, the day I made Senior Line, or the way he had of getting students to tap into their tenacity. 😇. He will certainly be missed, and I am sure Donald O'Connor, Gene Kelly, and of COURSE Gregory Hines had an extra special welcome for him in heaven!

Peggy Hackett

Friday, April 15, 2016

Joel was a very close friend actually gave dancing lessons to our first daughter because he saw talent. Many recitals followed and wonderful memories. He brought joy and enthusiasm to all Sadly we all say good bye. Love Peggy Hackett

Amanda Withrow

Friday, April 15, 2016

It is hard to believe he is gone. He was such a great man and boy did I love going to his camp each summer. He really taught me alot and I couldn't be more grateful to him. I grew so much the summer I was a DCK and I feel so honored to have represented him and to still mention him when I tell people of that summer. I would love to come to the memorial and would love to be updated if possible. The dance world lost a great man yesterday and I pray for Mrs. Hila and all his other family and friends who are grieving. Bless you!

Heather (Meadows) Brewer

Friday, April 15, 2016

Mr. Joel, it makes my heart sing to read all the wonderful memories everyone has about you. I have so many memories of my time at the 12th studio and then when my daughter started taking there. You were always good to our family and always smiled when my mom walked in, you wanted to know what type of goodies she brought you that day. We had so much fun a the dance camps and I always think about the finale dance when I hear that song. I still have my clown ornamet that was yours on my tree. I am glad that you are able to dance again, you are/were truly one of the greatest tappers I have seen.

Nancy and Jennifer Mahler

Friday, April 15, 2016

We have lost a beautiful man, friend, and Dancer. Our world has shrunk a little, so very sorry Joel is gone. Jennifer took dance from him, she loved to "tap." He was the kindest, gentlest person I have ever known. Joel helped so many young people over the years... He will be missed.

Mika L (Richard) Terry

Friday, April 15, 2016

A very special man that holds a special place in my heart, it was such an honor to dance for you and yours is a legacy that will live on forever.

Lisa Brown

Friday, April 15, 2016

Mr. Ruminer will be missed. He was always smiling and making the day better for others.

Amy Williford Barranco

Friday, April 15, 2016

Thank you Mr. Joel for everything you did for me. You made me the dance teacher I am today. You will always have a special place in my heart and my next dance class is dedicated to you. Rest in peace.

(Judith) Shannon Roe

Friday, April 15, 2016

Condolences to Hila and to all who were close to Joel. I still think of him as the sweet, talented little boy who seemed like a grownup to me even before he was 10 years old. Since then, he has touched the lives of so many people! And he will continue to live in their memories for years to come.

Paula Scott

Friday, April 15, 2016

Mr. Joel - Respect for others, show others your joy by your character, and do what you love --- these are a few of the things he impressed upon soooo many young folks (and parents as well). I know Madison was! Thank you for sharing your heart and soul as well as your immeasurable talent with all who knew you...No one will take your place, you will be missed...looking forward to seeing you dancing with the angels!

B J Bray

Friday, April 15, 2016

From my start at Dorothy Donaldson, I have always
appreciated everything Mr. Joel did for me. Everyone will surely miss Mr. Joel, but he is still with us in all that he did for so many of us.
Prayers are with Ms. Hila.
Barbara Jo (Simons) Bray

keltie Sanders Tezel

Friday, April 15, 2016

Oh Mr. Joel, Where do I even begin...I grew up with you as a part of our family. Playing cards (ShangHai), weekends at the lake, sleepovers at your house with those clowns everywhere. Christmas scavenger hunts, cherry tomatoes, just so many memories. You were also instrumental in getting me my own phone with my own line in my room. You were very special to me and I will miss you tremendously. Get the Chorus Line ready!

Terri L Lee

Friday, April 15, 2016

Joel Ruminer....there are no words to express how many lives you have touched.
You were not only a teacher, but a mentor & friend. I will never forget the values, & confidence you taught me as a shy young little girl.
I see all the memories & all the wonderful things people are saying about you & it makes me smile.
As another said...Dance with the Angels Joel & rejoice!
You will be forever remembered & greatly missed.
Terri Lee

Shay (Paulson) Rafferty

Friday, April 15, 2016

I cried the day I took my last dance class under you. It wasn’t that long ago, actually. To me, it was the end of an era. But I took comfort in knowing I could still see your smiling eyes, welcoming smile and receive a big hug from you out and about in town. I always loved those special days that I would get to unexpectedly run into you at the store and exchange updates on life.

For 22 years you helped shape me into the person I have become. For 22 years you taught me dance…you taught me patience. You taught me perseverance, discipline, respect, love, pride in myself and my work. I would rush to the studio on 12th street on my weekends home from college to give you a big hug. I didn’t blink an eye to join the adult class when I finally moved back to LR. Joel’s tap dancing was (and is) in my blood and I’ve always felt incomplete when I don’t have it.
I brought my tap shoes out last night, put them on, and ran a couple of combinations. I could hear you laughing at me messing up on such simple combinations. Even though you are not physically here anymore, you will live on forever in the hearts and minds of the hundreds of young lives you touched. I use a lot of your teaching techniques in my own classroom—so, even if my students never knew you—they know your influence.

I am so very sorry for your loss, Ms. Hila. I hope you take comfort in knowing that your beautiful boy influenced and shaped the lives of hundreds of people and his legacy will live on forever. I will forever cherish the memories I have from my time as a Joel’s dancer—the studio on 12th, the studio on Rodney Parham, the numerous dance camps, the workshops, the recitals, everything. Thank you both for being a rock in my life. Mr. Joel, you finally have your dancing feet back. I hope you never stop tapping again!! Heaven gained an extraordinary man yesterday and will definitely be a lot more entertaining! I love you Mr. Joel.

Leta smith

Friday, April 15, 2016

Joel you are dancing with the angels.

Patricia (Abel) Ashworth

Friday, April 15, 2016

Joel always had a welcoming smile and always happy to see me.
I went to Central High with him and loved watching him dance.
Through the years I would duplicate cassettes for him use at his dance camps. He will be missed by many passed students and friends.

Emily Litzinger Thompson

Friday, April 15, 2016

Mr. Joel will always be in my heart. Truely kind, professional, and inspirational. He has influenced the way I carry myself and do business.

Thomas Alexander

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Mr Joel was one incredibly talented and inspirational teacher. First met him in 1997 when Marcus Alford told Mr. Joel that he should hire me for his dance camps. He was a great mentor and gave so much! His life's work will continue to thrive through many teachers and students he touched. Rest in Peace Great Tap Man! I love you Mr. Joel!

ERMA PETERSON

Thursday, April 14, 2016

We LOVED Mr. Joel and he loved us all. I am so glad that he was in our lives from the time Branndii began dancing with him when she was 3 years old until his passing. A really good man. We will miss him dearly!

Sarah Mitchell Rodriguez

Thursday, April 14, 2016

The impact Mr. Joel had on my life and so many others is simply immeasurable. His ability to remember seemingly every single person from year to year at the state fair was above and beyond and always made everyone feel important. No matter how busy he was he could always find the time for anyone that needed help. It was an honor to know him as a child, and an even greater blessing to call him my friend as an adult. The world lost a great, great man and the angels now have the very best dance instructor God could deliver them! Much love, Mr. Joel

Paula Smith

Thursday, April 14, 2016

I had the priveledge of knowing Joel thru Roller Funeral Home. Every time I have seen him, he always calls me by name which is incredible due to the number of people he sees. I was shocked to learn of his passing. Another Angel gained a bell today. You will be missed by all, Joel. RIP

Cindy Hays

Thursday, April 14, 2016

So sorry to hear this. What a great dance teacher !!! I've known Mr Joel for 47 years - I took dance from him, taught for him, and my daughters took lessons from him. Mr Joel will be missed.

Bob Powers

Thursday, April 14, 2016

To a great man who cared about all of his kids. A generous heart and great spirit.

One more time!

Kasey Dorsett Kinder

Thursday, April 14, 2016

I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Joel passing away. He was my teacher from 1988 when I was in 4th grade until 1997 when I graduated high school. His insistence on each student giving his/her best effort really taught me the value of discipline and dedication. Those are lessons, along with a shuffle ball step, that I carry with me even today. Thank you, Mr. Joel!

Nancy Booe Shipe

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Joel will be greatly missed by all. Joel has been a part of my life since I was a baby. He was my neighbor, my dance teacher, my friend. Our families have forever been weaved together with life strands. He was a very talented & respected man. I always appreciated his love & caring values. The lord has received another great angel, sore the sky's Joel! Love you always!

Tim Denny

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Mr. Joel Iam glad I got to meet you and fellowship with you
At Roller Chenal and listening to your story's of your Dancing
Competitions and your Dance Studio in LR teaching so many people to Dance! And me telling you of all my travels in the navy. Thank you for being my friend. May you rest in peace! Amen.

Kay Smith

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Your imprint on this earth will not be forgotten. I won't ever forget the times you taught my class and oh how i wanted to do my best for you! You brought that out in so many people! Thank you Joel for teaching us all how to dance!

Belinda Shelton

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Mr. Joel, I have so many happy memories of dancing for you. Dancing was one of my greatest pleasures in life and I'm so proud to have been on one of your lines. Thank you for the opportunity...and forgiving me for going blank in the middle of my solo at recital! I hold a special place in my heart for you!

Dana Huyck

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Utterly heartbroken. Joel's House of Dance was my favorite place to go to help me forget about how much I didn't fit in at school. He was so hard on me, but I knew he loved me. He loved teasing and pushing me to be my best. I still break out into my tap dances. Rest in peace Mr. Joel. You will always have a place in my heart and will be greatly missed.

Bryan Langston

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Mr. Joel had a positive impact on so many young people's lives over many generations. I am so thankful for the 15 years he taught me, the atmosphere he created so young people could follow and live out their dreams on stage and for the happy memories so many families experienced at the recitals that Joel created.

To Joel's family - I am so sorry for your loss and I hope that you can feel a little comfort knowing that a piece of him carries on in every person's life that he touched.

Mindy Ware

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Mr. Joel was my dance teacher for years and years. Not only was he my instructor, but such a wonder figure and mentor in my life. That man had so many talents and was so extraordinary! It is so sad to see him leave us on Earth, but he is now tapping away in Heaven! I appreciate everything he taught me as a dancer and as a person! Miss him dearly!

Shannon Ashcraft King

Thursday, April 14, 2016

I am so sad to hear about Joel's passing. I took dance from him for many years, and have so many good memories from that time, prayers for his mom during this difficult time.

Kathryn Dahlstrom

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Mr. Joel was such an influential person in my life. He taught me so much more than to dance. My heart has a hole in it tonight. I loved him dearly.

Andi Thompson

Thursday, April 14, 2016

You were probably the biggest inspiration I've had, like EVER. teaching me for nearly 5 years were the best years of my life. you were so fun and energetic, and i remember always dancing with my group who had became good friends of mine. i enjoyed dancing while you taught me, and I'd never have a better dance teacher. thank you for being there for me and always teaching us to find ourselves through dance. along with my mom and my Memaw.

Suzanne Shivers

Thursday, April 14, 2016

I have had the privilege of knowing Mr Joel for most of my life, almost 60 years. I first met him as a child when my mother worked as a bookkeeper at LRU (now UALR) and he was a student there who also worked as a student aid in her office. He later said he set up his bookkeeping method for his dance school based on what he'd learned from my Mother.
She always so fond of him and said if she's had a son she would have wanted him to be just like Joel. We delighted in attending his theatrical performances while he was a student there. Many years later he would teach my daughter dance for about 10 years. We had lost Mother by then, but I think he really enjoyed being able to teach her granddaughter
He was very special to us all..

Sherry Herndon Duggin

Thursday, April 14, 2016

I met Mr. Joel in 1959 when I was 4 years old. At the time, I didn't know what an influence he would have on me. But over the years, he taught me determination, promptness, to follow directions and to love tap dancing. He was a very important part of my life as well as to so many, many others. I will always be thankful for having the chance to take tap from him. I know there is some dancing going on in heaven and Mr. Tommy Scott is tickling those ivory keys to every step! Until we meet again...five, six, seven, eight!

Linda Sue Lincoln Padgett

Thursday, April 14, 2016

My sincerest sympathy goes out to Ms. Hila. I know I am only one of many thousands of people whose lives were touched for the better by Joel. He came into my life om 1962, when I was 10 years old. I think I enjoyed him best, though, as an adult when I was in was in one of his adult classes in the 90's and a bit beyond. I really appreciated his humor and dedication more then than I had as a child. He will be missed by so many of us. Thank you, Mr. Joel, for all of the wonderful memories!

Jessie Vowell

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Mr. Joel was a very big part of my life since I took my first tap class at 4 years old. He was my mentor and friend. He will be missed terribly by myself and my family.

Sharri BEARDEN Stewart

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Oh dear Mr. Joel. I'm so sad to hear that he's gone. I taught for him from age 14 to 21. He went to school with my parents. So many wonderful memories spending four days a week at his school on 12th Street. What a wonderful teacher and mentor. Truly loved all the kids. You will be sorely missed.

LaBerta Russell

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Joel you were such a wonderful part of my life, as well as my families.
I grew up in your studio as well as my son, who you treated as your own.
I hope you know how much you were loved, May you rest in peace.

Marcus R. Alford & Annie Day

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Joel was such a wonderful and caring man. He touched so many lives with his talents. His spirit will always be with us. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. Joel will truly be missed but never forgotten.

Joanne Moren

Thursday, April 14, 2016

My daughter, my granddaughter, and I all took lessons from Mr. Joel, plus attending church with him and Hila. They were such an important part of our lives. I don't know of any person who has had such a positive impact on so many people. Rest in Peace, Mr. Joel. I know you will be tapping again in Heaven.

Bobbye Jo Moren Allen

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Mr. Joel...not sure where to start...You taught me from the beginning to the end. You have strengthened me in so many ways, physically, emotionally, and artistcally. You brought me up when I was down and gave me encouragement. My mom, daughter, cousins, friends, and myself all danced with you. I even catch myself tapping when I get that burst of energy. You have been such an inspiration to so many people, and you will forever be in my heart as a great mentor in life. Thank you for it all. Until we meet again. I love you.

Gabrielle Parkey

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Mr. Joel, you impacted my life so much. Your kindness, willingness to share your passion for teaching inspired me. Thank you for 30 years worth of memories and friendship. You touched and were loved by so many. May you get heaven's stage ready for us to all perform again one day. You will truly be missed!

Suzette Smith

Thursday, April 14, 2016

I was very saddened to hear of this news! I've known Mr. Joel since I was 4 yrs old. He was such a wonderful man. Even if he was pushing you to learn a step, it was only to make you better at it. He was such a wonderful part of my childhood. He will be missed deeply! My condolences to his family!

Cindi Bond

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Mr. Joel touched many lives, spanning several generations. Myself and my daugher are examples of those generations. May his soul now rest in peace. His presence will surely be missed in Little Rock and beyond.