Wednesday, June 10, 2026 10:28 am

Billy Joe Whitaker, age 82 of Rutherfordton, NC, passed away May 30, 2026.

Joe was born July 24, 1943 in Caroleen, Rutherford County to William Worth Whitaker and Josephine McAbee Whitaker.

Joe is survived by his son Joey Whitaker and wife Jeanne of Rutherfordton, daughter Mary Lamberger and husband David of Roseville, MI, 10 grandchildren, and 15 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Charlotte Patricia Nodine Whitaker, and his son, Robert "Timothy" Whitaker.

Joe retired as a truck driver from Overnight Transportation and in his last days, worked for Avis Car Rental at the Asheville Airport.

A memorial service will be held at a later date at Fellowship Baptist Church, where his ashes will be put to rest so that all of his grandchildren may attend.

An online guest registry is available at www.carolinasimpleservices.com.

Carolina Simple Services is assisting the family.