Joseph Ho'okumuokalani Self Jr.'s Obituary
Celebrating the life of Joseph Hoʻokumuokalani Self Jr.
Born on October 20, 1949 in Kalihi, Oʻahu. He was the second child of eight to Virginia and Joseph Self Sr.
He attended St. Anthony’s School in Kalihi, and Damien High School. In his junior year, he transferred to Farrington High School, where he graduated with the Class of 1968.
After graduation, he began his career with the Honolulu Police Department. Upon retiring in 2002 as a CID Homicide Missing Persons Officer, he began working with the Attorney General’s Office as a Special Agent. In 2018, he retired for a second time, serving a total of 50 years in law enforcement.
He is survived by his wife, Josephine “Jojo” Self.
His daughters: Jamie Cole, Jade Martinez, Ramona-Ann “Momi” Kaehuaea, Jessie (Frank) Royos, Jolene Carter, Jovey Self, and Sabrina McGee. His sons: Kermit “J-Boy” (Mai) Kyle, William “Haole” (Ilona) Kyle, and Joseph Self IV. He has 31 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.
The most important events in his life were centered on his children and grandchildren: Britnee, Kawehi, Tai, and Poʻokela.
He was a part of the Hawaii Police Relief Association (Board Member) and a Committee Member for the Farrington High School Class of 68.
Joe Self was infamously known as “Mr. Kalihi”. To quote an article written in the Honolulu Advertiser, “I have a lot of respect for Joe. His instincts are honed by years of experience and police training. The finished product is pretty amazing. At conferences on the mainland, they call him “The Big Kahuna”.”
He was a man of his word with the biggest heart. It didn’t matter the time of day or where you were. All you needed to do was call and he was there for you.
Joe Self passed on December 13, 2018 amongst his family.
His life will be celebrated at Hawaiian Memorial Park Mortuary on Monday, January 21, 2019. Visitation is at 5:30pm. Service is at 6:30pm. Burial on Tuesday, January 22, 2019 at 9:00am at the gravesite.
What’s your fondest memory of Joseph?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joseph?
Share a story where Joseph's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joseph you’ll never forget.
How did Joseph make you smile?
