Feb. 24, 2013

 

ERNUL — Joe Wayne Whitford, 55, of Ernul, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Sunday, February 24, 2013. Joe Wayne worked in the auto parts industry for nearly forty years, beginning his career with New Bern Auto Supply at the age of sixteen. His knowledge and expertise was relied upon by many and he was considered the “go to guy” throughout the community. He was a long-time member of the Little Swift Creek Vol. Fire Dept. where he gave countless hours of service, serving in many positions and volunteering in numerous ways through the years. Joe Wayne was a skilled craftsman, with a talent for carpentry, woodworking and all things mechanical. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to others, providing mechanical guidance and assistance to many friends and neighbors. Joe Wayne was also a man of faith and lifetime member of New Haven F.W.B. Church.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, February 27, 2013 at Pollock-Best Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Paul Jackson officiating. Burial will follow at the Whitford Family Cemetery.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Rita McGee Whitford of Ernul; daughter, Jessica Whitford Dollar (Shaun) of Yorktown, Va.; son, Jacob M. Whitford of Ernul; brother, Robert Steven Whitford (Elayne) of Ernul; sister, Dorothy Ann Whitford Russell (Curtis) of Ernul; one grandson, Landon Wayne Dollar; two nieces, Tracy Gatlin and Amanda Whitford; and one nephew, Timothy Ipock.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday evening at the funeral home. For those considering memorial contributions, the family suggests they be made to the Craven County Home Health & Hospice Foundation. Friends are invited to sign the online guest book by visiting www.pollockbest.com.

Arrangements are by Pollock-Best Funerals & Cremations.