Joseph Raymond Wallis

Joseph Raymond Wallis, 82, passed away on May 19, 2026. Born on July 8, 1943, in Macon, Georgia, Joseph was the son of Martin and Clemmie Wallis and the oldest of two children. In time, he moved with his family to Columbia, South Carolina, where he graduated from Dreher High School. From those early years forward, his life reflected steady purpose, a grounded faith, and the kind of quiet wisdom that helped others feel both guided and understood.

Joseph pursued theological training at Columbia Bible College and Moody Bible Institute, later receiving his doctorate in Theology from Bethany Theological Seminary as well as a doctorate in ministry. He devoted more than 52 years to pastoral ministry, serving congregations across Illinois, Mississippi, Florida, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina, where he ultimately settled and retired. Alongside his pastoral work, he taught at Carolina Bible College in Fayetteville, North Carolina for 18 years, offering students not only knowledge, but also the measured insight and steady encouragement that come from a life shaped by conviction. Even in serious matters, Joseph’s gentle humor had a way of easing burdens and drawing people closer.

Joseph met Nancy Hicks at church, and they were married on March 17, 1967. Together they raised four children and built a family life rooted in devotion and enduring love. Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Clemmie Wallis; his son in law, Paul Thomas Waters; and his grandson in law, Perry Farrington. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Nancy Wallis; his children, Jonathan Wesley Wallis, Teresa Smith and her husband Todd, Cassandra Elliott and her husband George, Jennifer Baker and her husband Willie; 13 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; and his sister, Marie Bridges and her husband Jimmie.

In his personal life, Joseph found joy in simple and lasting pleasures. He enjoyed fishing, loved to read and study, and treasured traveling—especially to Myrtle Beach and Pigeon Forge. Whether in a quiet moment with a book, a day spent outdoors, or time away with those he loved, his life carried a steady gratitude and a faith that remained constant through every season.

Visitation with Family & Friends will be held at Corinth Free Will Baptist Church, 7920 Autry Mill Road, Dunn, NC, on May 22, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. A Funeral Service will follow at Corinth Free Will Baptist Church on May 22, 2026, beginning at 2:00 pm. Burial will take place at Corinth Free Will Baptist Cemetery, 7920 Autry Mill Road, Dunn, NC 28334, on May 22, 2026.

Matthew 25:21 "Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord."