Joseph "J" Cleveland Herring III

Joseph Cleveland Herring III went to meet his heavenly father surrounded by his family September 7, 2023 after a brief illness.  J was born in Duplin County on June 16, 1952 to Joseph Cleveland Herring, Jr. and Ellen Fussell Herring.

J grew up playing football, going to Topsail Island, surfing, and traveling. He joined the Army after college, then returned home to help his father run J.C. Herring and Son Machine Shop, which he later took over and ran for over thirty years.

J met his wife of 44 years, Kathy, in his 20's.  They fell in love, got married, and within years had started a family, complete with Catherine, their only child.  J was a wonderful father and husband and these were his best qualities by far. He was everything a child could want in a father, teaching Catherine love of the ocean and nature itself.  He worked proudly and graciously to provide for his family up until his passing.

J was well loved in his community and was always known for being kind, honest, laid-back, humble, and hardworking. He served as a deacon at First Baptist Church, Wallace, for several years, as well as Sunday School director.  He held various roles on mission trips and the Baptist Mens group. He instilled his love for Christ to his family and always put others first.  His love for God was unfailing and steadfast and will forever be remembered.

He had strong friendships that he valued and cherished since his childhood, maintaining so many throughout his adult life.   J loved the beach and the outdoors and always shared that love with his family.  His dog Maggie, was one of his greatest loves and he will forever be missed by her. His greatest traits were his love for his family and his dedication to his wife and daughter.

He is predeceased in death by his parents, Joseph Cleveland Herring, Jr. and Ellen Fussell Herring, sister, Joellen Pistner, and brother-in-law, Emerson Orton.  He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Kathy Herring, of the home, and daughter Catherine Fells and husband Dave, of Leland, NC, sister, Paula Herring of Wallace, NC, brother-in-law Michael Pistner of Wallace, NC.  Father and Mother in law, Kenneth and Vergie Crawford of Jacksonville, NC.  Sisters, Jeffrey Ardito and husband Vince, Lisa Stokes and husband David, both of Jacksonville, NC, along with numerous nieces and nephews.  He is lastly survived by his dog Maggie, and his granddog, Shiloh.

A celebration of life for family and close friends will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, a donation to Cape Fear Community College Welding Technology, Cape Fear Community College Radiography Program, or the Alliance for Cape Fear Trees would be greatly cherished and honored.

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