Very sad news. Thank you to HN mods for commemorating Joe's passing with the black bar. His contribution to our world is immeasurable. Although I never had the pleasure of meeting him in person, by all accounts he was much loved. Joe you will be missed.
I like the black bar, it shows both mourning and respect.
Occasionally I'll see the black bar and the notice and not even know who the person was - at which point I get to find out about someone amazing I didn't know existed and to appreciate their contribution.
Obviously I'd prefer that there not need to be a black bar though.