Committal
Billy “Jobe” Harbison, 70, passed away on Friday, August 28, 2026, following a period of declining health.
Born in Burke County, NC, he was the son of the late Billy and Ellie Franklin Harbison of Drexel. An accomplished individual from a young age, Jobe earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He dedicated 25 years of service to the Burke County Sheriff’s Office, protecting his community across multiple roles including; Animal Control, Detention, Road Patrol, and Chief Bailiff. Jobe also served as a reserve officer with Morganton Public Safety and the Drexel Police Department.
Jobe was a faithful member of Bethel Church of Christ and a Master Mason with Lovelady Lodge No. 670 A.F. & A.M. in Valdese, NC. He had a deep love for the outdoors, especially enjoying his fishing trips with Gary and Jeff Coffey, as well as his trips to Kiawah Island, South Carolina. Known affectionately by friends such as “Jobe,” “Hobbs.” “Hobby,” and “Ja-bay,” he possessed a great sense of humor and loved bringing warmth and laughter to those around him.
He is survived by his lifelong companion, Kay Rhodes; her sons, Shane Rhodes and Chad Rhodes; cousins, Martha Howell, Julie French, Jennifer Fulbright; his beloved friends, Brooks and Amanda Holder.
In addition to his parents, Jobe was preceded in death by his sister, Linda Harbison Schmit, and other family members.
Jobe will be truly missed by all who knew him, but his legacy will live in the hearts of his family, friends, and community he served.
The family will receive friends from 5pm until 6pm, Friday, September 4, 2026 at Sossoman Funeral Home. A celebration of life will follow at 6pm in the Colonial Chapel of the funeral home with Pastor Richard Via officiating. There will be a private family burial with Masonic Rites provided by the Lovelady Lodge No. 670 A.F. & A.M.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for Billy “Jobe” Harbison.
I had the privilege to work alongside Jobe in the court system before he retired. He was one of the kindest and most professional individuals. He was always so positive and helpful. Prayers to those he leaves behind.
Condolences to Kay and all of the family. Jobe was a really nice and easy going guy. My thoughts are with Kay and all of Jobe’s family and friends. May he rest peacefully.
My condolences to the family.
To Kay, and all Jobe’s family and friends, my deepest condolences. It’s plain to see from all the wonderful words of sympathy and support that he was a wonderful man who left a lasting impression on this world.
Brother Jobe, You were such a great friend. I will forever cherish our friendship, your kindness, and the times we spent together doing all the things you and I loved to do. It has been difficult coming to terms with what has happened way too soon. You helped make me a better person. I will truly miss you….
Jobe my friend, I didn't know when I saw you and Kay Wednesday that it would be the last time. This is hard to write. I only met Jobe earlier this year when he started coming in the store. We hit it off immediately and I always looked forward to his visits. I could count on him coming by three or more days every week. We had great conversations and laughter. He was a solid trustworthy friend that I am truly going to miss. Just wish I had met him sooner. Kay I am so sorry and want you to know he talked about you often and loved you so much. GOD bless you.
Uncle Jobe, how you will be missed. Daddy always said you were always there for him, he thought so fondly of you, and you were a true friend to him and our family. At least your knee feels better now - you and Daddy can go camping and play baseball in the fields again. ❤️🩹
Jobe was a very close friend of my grandad gunter, we all loved Jobe. Today my nana sent me this so I just now found out, but one specific thing i remember being with Jobe was when me, my brother and my grandad would go to his house sometimes so grandad could hangout with him or maybe help him fix things around the house if needed and Jobe used to have a black and white dog that I loved running around with, Jobe would give us the dog toys to play with her and he was always cracking jokes just like grandad, we also use to go camping a lot when I was little. I’ve had nothing but good times with Jobe and it’s sad to see he’s gone but I’m most definitely sure they’re both cracking jokes in heaven.
Jobe you will be missed! You were good to your family and a good friend. Love you