He was preceded in death by his father, John Morgan Funderburk; mother, Lessie Mae Long Funderburk; his wife of 41 years, Lurlee Tatum Funderburk; his daughters, Zoie Van Zette Funderburk and Wanda Jo Barnett; and long-time companion, Pauline Franks.
He is survived by his son, Joe (Debbie) H. Funderburk, Jr.; granddaughter, Kayla Welford; great-grandkids, Reyna, Taylah, Da’Markus, and Jeremiah; as well as sister, Mrs. Ruth (Bingy) Bernaducci. He is also survived by Mrs. Pauline Franks’ children, Deedra Franks, Zac Franks, Bobby (Phyllis) Franks, Debra (Pat) Cary, Pam (Bobby) Flowers; as well as other family and friends.
In 1999, he retired from Teledyne Continental Motors after 30 years. After retirement, he spent time driving delivery trucks for several companies because he did not want to stop working. He also worked for Mobile County, drove wreckers when he was just starting out. He was a diver for the Sheriff’s Flotilla when he was younger.
He was a Master Mason, belonging to Azalea Lodge 998 after transferring from Mobile Lodge 40. He was also a member of the Scottish Rite and the Abba Shrine Temple Director’s Staff. He spent many years as a secretary of Mobile 40, and he truly enjoyed teaching the Masonic Lessons. He also spent time driving the Shrine van – carrying children to the Shriners Hospitals.
He was a member of Riverside Baptist Church. He loved being active while his children were in school by serving in the PTA and Band.
He will be buried at Pine Crest Cemetery. Visitation will be on Saturday, February 13, 2021 from 9a.m. to 11 a.m. with a Masonic Graveside Service following at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital and mailed c/o BlackTop Posse – Amanda Howard; 168 Cowart St Suite 2; Lucedale MS 39452.
