Joe Franklin Metcalf, 95, of Morganton, NC went home to be with the Lord May 1, 2025 at his residence. He was born in Asheville, NC on September 25, 1929, and was the son of the late Joseph Edward Metcalf and Vera Mae Fulton Metcalf.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Ruth Walton Mull Metcalf, a son, Roger Clark Metcalf; brothers, Hoy Clifton Metcalf, Calvin Coolidge Metcalf, Carl Edward Metcalf, and Harvey Leroy Metcalf; and sisters, Katherine Maybell Metcalf, Ruby Virginia Metcalf Riggins, and Ruth Marchalle Metcalf Speas; and a special canine friend, Lady.
Surviving are children, Gloria M. Boyd and husband, Ralph, Ricky Joe Metcalf, both of Morganton, and Teresa M. Tallant of Hickory; granddaughter, Stephanie Boyd Price and husband, Eric; great grandson, Trent Price all of Morganton; and numerous nieces, and nephews, and other family members.
Joe was born in Asheville, NC, and grew up in the Avery’s Creek area in Buncombe County. He served in the United States Army in 1948 and 1949, and Joe was a carpenter by trade for around 80 years. Along with his father, brothers, and son, Joe built many homes in Valdese and surrounding areas and the library in Valdese. He was a master woodworker, and crafted things over the years like mandolins, dollhouses, and fine furniture. Joe, Calvin, Carl, and Joe’s son Ricky even restored the first home built on the battery in Charleston, SC that was featured in Southern Accents magazine in 1988. Metcalf Builders now lives on through Joe’s son Ricky, and other nephews as well. He loved bluegrass music, golfing, water skiing, 8-ball pool, and bowling. Joe even competed (and won) in bowling and 8-ball pool tournaments. Joe was a faithful member of Mountain View #2 Baptist Church of Morganton. He will be remembered for his unwavering kindness to all, his fierce love of his family, and his skill and genius for all things woodworking.
The family would like to thank Mission Hospital in Marion, NC, Atrium Home Health, and Via Health Partners Hospice for their care during this time.
The family will receive friends from 4pm until 6pm, Saturday, May 17, 2025 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held at 3pm, Sunday, May 18, 2025 at Mountain View #2 Baptist Church with Pastor Larry Combs, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mountain View #2 Baptist Church or Via Health Partners Hospice.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Leave a tribute for Joe Franklin Metcalf.
Uncle Joe was one of the sweetest men God blessed me to have in my life. Although I didn’t get to be around him very much. I cherished the time I spent with him. All the fun we had playing in the basement. All his stories. He will be greatly missed. Go rest high on that mountain. Aunt Ruth is waiting.
What a Prince of a guy!
So sorry for the loss of Joe, he is now with Ruth and Roger and many other loved one's, I have some great memories of being with Ruth and Joe,one special memory is when we all went to the World's Fair in Knoxville, Tn., we had so much fun. I Love all of you and you're in my thoughts and Prayers . Love Ozelle
To the Family i'm so sorry for your loss May your happy memories give you peace and comfort during this challenging time And I Pray the Good Lord will wrap his loving arms around you all and comfort you all during this and for days to come
Gloria, Teresa, Rick Your family is in our thoughts and prayers . Fond memories of Joe and Ruth. They are together again and watching over all of you . Stephen and Teressia Shook
Seeing this notice has left me with a heavy heart. Joe was as a finest man, I've ever known. He & Rick helped me so much after my husband passed away. He has joined his sweet Ruth & are both enjoying healthy bodies and all his siblings. Gloria, Rick & Stephanie, you are in my prayers for comfort as you carry on your parent's legacy.
So sorry for your loss. Wonderful family.
Gloria, Stephanie and family, You have our deepest sympathy in the passing of Joe. Your family is very special and we hold many great memories of Joe and Ruth. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Greg and Sharon Hughes