He was born on September 18, 1942 in Charlotte, NC to the late Claude Raeford and Dove (Gibson) Thrower.
Joel attended Charlotte City Schools and was a devoted member of East Belmont Church of God in Belmont, NC.
Quite the sports fanatic, Joel loved collecting UNC merchandise and watching the Panthers and NASCAR on TV. He was an especially big fan of Dale Earnhardt. In his free time, he enjoyed watching tv and playing computer games.
Joel never met a stranger in his life. He was very friendly and was always cutting up with people.
Joel is survived by his children, Michelle Thrower (John MacCombs), Kellie Lopez (Hector), and Matthew Thrower; his grandchildren, Brandon MacCombs, Alex MacCombs, Amber MacCombs, Johnny MacCombs, Dalton Attocknie, and Tori Lopez; his great-grandchildren, Alice Billings and Luke Pisano; his sister, Linda Thrower Hill; as well as numerous loving nieces, nephews, other relatives, and great friends.
Joel was preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Dove; his loving wife, Linda (Deratt) Thrower; and his sister, Terrie Davis.
The family will receive guests from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm on Saturday, October 2, 2021 at East Belmont Church of God, 320 Catawba Street in Belmont. The memorial service will immediately follow the visitation at 2:00 pm.
Joel leaves behind many people who will love and miss him, especially his thirteen-year-old son, Matthew. If friends and family would like to support Matthew’s financial future, donations may be made by check to Joel’s niece, Tracy Thomas, and delivered to the church on the day of the service.