Joseph Cruz Meno, Jr.

Joseph Cruz Meno Jr. 

July 17, 1965 – February 11, 2026

Joseph Cruz Meno Jr., age 60, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026, at Virginia Hospital Center in Arlington, Virginia, with his family by his side. Born on July 17, 1965, at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Joe lived a life defined by creativity, kindness, and happiness.

For the past two years, Joe courageously battled prostate cancer with a positive outlook and steadfast resolve. He continued to show up each day with hope, strength, and a deep appreciation for the people he loved.

Joe was known for his vivid imagination and his passion for “the art of the possible.” He lived life exactly as he wanted. He founded Brick Journal, a magazine that started with his love of bricks and highlighted the work of the Adult Fans of Lego (AFOL) community. He traveled the world to share his passion with others. He loved to draw, paint, build, and create—bringing ideas to life and encouraging others to see beyond limitations. Joe would often gift his art to friends and family. He was especially known for his pop-up cards and color pencil drawings of their favorite Disney Characters. Through his art and his teaching, he inspired many to embrace creativity and believe in magic. Joe had a gift for making friends and family laugh, smile, and feel supported. He was always ready with a helping hand and a generous heart.

He is survived by his father, Jose Meno; his sisters, Patricia Brewer and Jenifer Meno; his nieces, Gracie Constantian and Emily Denneny; his nephew, Trey Brewer; and his dog, Elvis. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Tokie Meno.

A Catholic Mass will be held on February 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 2844 Village Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28304. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. prior to the Mass.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Joe’s memory.

Joe’s creativity, laughter, and enduring spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered. He was a “great guy, a loving son, brother and uncle”.