Joel Edward Durham, Jr.
Joel Edward Durham, Jr., 54, of Rochester, NY, passed away Thursday night, August 28, 2025, in his home.
Joel was preceded in death by his father, Joel E. Durham Sr. He is survived by his cherished wife of 28 years, Emily Durham; mother Janice Durham; daughters, Vivan Durham (Demeara Torres) and Jeanne Durham; sisters Shawn Carstens and Robin Durham (Chris Ohal); nephews Josh, Ben and Liam Carstens; and by his beloved companion bird, Queen Anne.
Joel was a talented writer and editor. He was employed at PC Gamer in San Francisco early in his career. He also wrote many gaming strategy guides and instruction books including Build Your Own High-Performance Gamer’s Mod PC, PC Modding for Dummies, and many more. His novel, Slip Away, was published in 2011.
Joel was a first generation video game enthusiast. As a little boy, he sat in front of his Atari until late at night to conquer Space Invaders. He was passionate about music, novels, games and food. He had a wildly creative sense of humor. He cared deeply about the welfare of children and animals. He was highly knowledgeable about computers and software, and he shared his talents with friends and family. Above all, his family was always in his heart.
He will be greatly missed, especially by his beloved Emily. We know we will see him again one day.
At Joel’s request, there will be no service or calling hours.
Donations in his memory can be made to The American Diabetes Association, https://diabetes.org/ways-to-give/memorial-gift
3 responses to “Durham Jr., Joel E”
Joel was my oldest friend. He was so smart, so funny and so genuine. He was picky about who he called “friend” and would give the shirt off of his back to those who made the cut. I am forever grateful that I passed muster and that I have so many terrific memories of time spent with him. Joel, you will never be forgotten.
Joel was a cool cousin. He was very bright, a computer genius, and was always very patient with my technological ineptness whenever I would ask him anything computer related. I’ll miss him and his sense of humor.
Rest in peace, Joel
You were his very best friend,Mike, no contest.With his numerous health problems that began so early in his life,sometimes it was hard to see a smile. The secret to watching a frown of pain change to a glowing smile was just to mention your name. Thanks Guy.
He and his sisters were indeed picky about who they let get close. To hear my son mention your name daily and tell a good usually humorous story about an adventure of the two of you about once a week was something I just loved.
Thanks for the great memories Mike!