Joseph Elbert Whitaker Sr.

Born in Sanford, North Carolina, Joe was the son of the late Lillie Mae Smith and Jessie Odell Whitaker.

Joe was a man built from hard work, calloused hands, and an even softer heart. A gifted mechanic by nature, he spent much of his life fixing what was broken—diesel engines, automobiles and sometimes weary hearts. He also took his skills to the open road as an 18-wheeler driver, finding peace in long highways and honest labor.

At home, Joe’s world was simple and full. He lived with his son Joseph E. Whitaker Jr. and daughter-in-law, Amber Lane, alongside four grandchildren—Brantlee, Brittany, Charlene, and Timothy—who filled his days with laughter and purpose. Beyond the home, Joe leaves behind his children: Gidget Whitaker (Grant), Alicia Whitaker, Ashley Whitaker (Tiffany), Angel Whitaker, and Samantha Whitaker Davis (Alan). He was the proud grandfather of nineteen grandchildren—Brittany, Michaela, Justin, Kevin, Zebulin, Kiley, Kirsten, Kasey, Leah, Tyler, Hunter, Londyn, Brantlee, Brittany, Charlene, Timothy, Carson, Maisy, and Jameson—and the beloved great-grandfather of seven, with an eighth precious life on the way. Joe was also a special part of Braxten, Cooper and Cheyanne’s life.

Joe found happiness in the quiet, meaningful moments—sitting in his chair waving at passing cars, spending hours in the barn or by the pond chewing his “backer,” working with his hands on any project he could find, helping tend to their livestock at home, grilling for family and friends, and playing ball in the yard with his grandchildren. If the kids were laughing, Joe was happy.

What defined Joe most was his giving heart. He was a man who would give without hesitation, expecting nothing in return. Strong, hardworking, selfless, and endlessly kind, he believed in helping others simply because it was the right thing to do. His love for children knew no boundaries—blood never mattered. If you were a child in his presence, you were loved.

Joe’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely. His absence will be deeply felt, but his spirit will forever remain in the laughter of his grandchildren, the hum of an engine, and the quiet moments spent outdoors.

Services will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral Home, located at 1411 N. Howe Street, Southport, NC 28461. Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, with a service honoring Joe’s life to follow immediately after at 3:00 pm. All who loved Joe are welcome to attend.

Pallbearers will be Timothy Whitaker, Joseph Whitaker, Jr., Greg Diaz, Cooper Nichols, Alan Davis, Carson Davis, Kevin Mercer, Bryan Gore, Brantlee Whitaker, and Braxten Lewis.

His giving heart will never be forgotten.

Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com

Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.