Vernon Joel Stilwell

Hickory – Vernon Joel Stilwell, 83 of Hickory went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at his residence.

Born on January 25th, 1940 in Burke County, NC, he was the son of the late Kelly and Edith Beaver Stilwell. Vernon was an avid NASCAR fan. He was loved by his family and many friends and will be dearly missed.

In addition to his parents, Vernon is preceded in death by his 2 brothers, Bill Stilwell and Colon Stilwell; 2 sisters, Ruby Mitchell and Dot Edwards and a granddaughter, Alice Elrod.

Those left to cherish his memory include, his son, Joel Stilwell and wife, Susan, his daughter, Katrina Sherrill, and husband, Tommy, his son, Darrin Stilwell and wife, Connie, and his son, Tracy Stilwell and wife, Laura; 2 brothers; Kelly "JR" Stilwell and Alan Stilwell,9 grandchildren, Keith, Kevin, Stephanie, David, Dillon, Crystal, Mackenzie, Kaitlyn, and Marlie; 20 great grandchildren, Noah, Brianna, Elizabeth Rose, John, Logan, Ella, Jacob, Abbey Grace, Haley, Gavin, Havin, Dawson, Valley Grace, Harper, Saige, Raylee, Westin, Addalie, Jace and Emmerie. Vernon is also survived by his long time special companion, Doris Riddle, as well as, numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Catawba Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 9th, 2024 at 2:00 pm with Pastor Thurman Roe officiating. Burial will follow at Catawba Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.

Condolences may be left at www.catawbamemorialpark.com.

The Stilwell Family is under the care of Catawba Memorial Park, Funeral & Cremations.