Joel Rodney Ashby, 76 of Chesapeake, Virginia, was born on September 7, 1947, in Ruther Glen, Virginia. He entered into eternal rest on March 21, 2024 in Greenville, NC

Joel was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Rev. Clarence and Virginia Ashby, three brothers, David Ashby, Steve Ashby, Rev. James Ashby and two sisters, Linda Runyon, Sharon Young and his great grandchild, Bentley Emery.

In his early years, Joel started his career as a union shipfitter at Norfolk Shipyard in Norfolk, Va. He then started his own venture as an entrepreneur of many businesses. He was a true lover of country music and 18 holes of golf. He was a great debater, avid reader and loved long walks with his late companion, Bubba Dog, that he loved dearly and he also enjoyed traveling.

Joel was of the Christian faith and a resounding scripture he cherished was I Corinthians 13:4-8 “Love is patient, love is kind. It keeps no record of wrongdoing.  Love never fails.”

Joel is survived by his son, Rodney Ashby of Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina and daughter, Candi Taylor (and husband Mike Taylor) of Littleton, North Carolina; his grandchildren, Marisa Merriett, Christian Emery, Zachary Carter, Collin Ashby; step grandchildren, Braxton Moseley, Chance Taylor and great grandchildren, Asher, Khyler, Jackson and Nolan; one brother, Philip Ashby (Ret, Lt. Col.) of Sneads Ferry, North Carolina; and three sisters, Jacqueline Taylor of Fredericksburg, Virginia, Rachel Tribble of Fredericksburg, Virginia and Judith Hopkins of Fall Church, Virginia.  He had many beloved nieces and nephews who affectionately called him Uncle Joel.

He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by his family and friends. It was Joel’s spoken request that his memorial be a private family gathering. As a token of honor, the family followed his request.

Candice and her husband Mike will receive friends and family at their home at 149 Bobbitt Road, Littleton, NC, on March 23rd from 7:30-9:00 PM.