Joe Thomas Earp

Joe Thomas Earp, a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, proud Navy veteran, and beloved community dentist, passed away unexpectedly on September 23, 2026, at the age of 87 in Raleigh, North Carolina. Born December 30, 1938, Joe devoted his life to his family, his community, and the many people he loved.

Born and raised in the small town of Angier, North Carolina, Joe learned the value of hard work at an early age, taking his first job at just 12 years old. That strong work ethic, along with his natural instinct to stand up for the underdog, would shape the man he became. In high school, Joe was a standout athlete in both football and baseball and served as senior class president—a natural leader whose character and integrity were evident from the beginning.

His pursuit of education took him to Campbell College, the University of North Carolina, and ultimately the UNC School of Dentistry. A die-hard Tar Heel through and through, Joe’s loyalty to Carolina never wavered. During these formative years, he married the love of his life, Gloria Sherron. Gloria stood beside him as he completed his demanding education and as they began building their life and family together.

Following dental school, Joe proudly served his country as a Naval officer and dentist. His years in the Navy instilled in him a deep and lasting respect for those who serve, and he remained fiercely proud of his military service throughout his life.

After completing his military service, Joe and Gloria settled in Smithfield, where he established a thriving dental practice. Known for his compassionate care, dedication, and genuine concern for his patients, Joe was deeply loved by the people he served. He was always willing to answer the call, no matter the hour. He never met a stranger, and he had a rare gift for making everyone in the room feel as though they were the most important person there. With his quick wit and unforgettable storytelling, Joe had an extraordinary ability to make people laugh and feel right at home.

Outside the office, Joe was an avid golfer and was never happier than when he was on the golf course—except, perhaps, when he was surrounded by his family. He was extraordinarily proud of Gloria and their daughters, Carla and Julie. In his later years, he lovingly cared for Gloria through her health challenges, embodying the devotion, strength, and loyalty that defined his life. He never let a day go by without telling his girls how deeply proud he was of them.

Joe’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his daughters, Julie Earp Byrd (Craig) of Raleigh and Carla Earp Starr (Brad) of Raleigh. He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Benjamin Starr (Sarah) of Raleigh, Hunter Starr (Kaitlyn) of Raleigh, Madison Walters (Will) of Charlotte, Will Hanna of San Diego, Carson Byrd of Raleigh, and Evan Byrd of Raleigh. Joe was also blessed with four great-grandchildren—Mary Austin Starr, Payton Starr, David Starr, and Collins Walters—who brought him immense joy.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held Monday, September 28, at 2:00 p.m. at Centenary United Methodist Church in Smithfield, North Carolina. Family visitation will be held at the church at 1:00 p.m. A private, family graveside service will be held in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, on Friday, October 2.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Centenary United Methodist Church in Smithfield or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.