JOSEPH JAMES ANDERSON was born on February 14, 1939 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to James J. and Catherine Anderson. The family appears to have moved to Camden in the late 1940s or later, as they are not listed in the 1947 Camden City Directory.

Joseph James Anderson attended Camden High School through the 11th grade before leaving to follow other pursuits. He enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 17, on August 16, 1956, and reached the rank of Seaman prior to his honorable discharge from his nation's service. 

After his service was completed, Joseph J. Anderson returned to Camden. He was appointed to the Camden Fire Department on June 29, 1962 and was promoted to Captain on July 12, 1968. Her served as a Battalion Chief from July 29, 1981 through June 18, 1984. Captain Anderson retired from the Fire Department on April 1, 1989, having served the City of Camden for over 26 years, during which time he was awarded the department's Medal of Valor.

Joseph James Anderson passed away on December 22, 1996. He is buried at Beverly National Cemetery in Beverly, New Jersey.