Joe Vance Eller

Joe Vance Eller, a cherished figure in the community, passed away suddenly on June 30, 2025, at CaroMont Regional Medical Center. Born on March 12, 1934, in Gastonia, North Carolina, Joe lived a full and vibrant life, marked by his dedication to teaching, coaching, and his unwavering commitment to his family and community.

A proud and passionate educator, Joe played a vital role in the Gaston County School system as a Teacher and Coach. He was known for his ability to inspire young minds, fostering a love for learning and teamwork in his students. One of his proudest accomplishments was coaching the "Little Orangemen", where he instilled not only skills in the young athletes but also invaluable lessons about sportsmanship, effort, and the importance of community. Joe was the assistant Coach for Cramerton High School from 1956 to 1969 and later the Coach for North Gaston High School. he enjoyed golf and football. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army.

Education was always a priority for Joe. He graduated from Appalachian State Teachers College with a Business degree and furthered his education by earning a Master's degree in Business and Vocations from UNC-G, as well as a Master's in School Administration from UNCC. His lifelong commitment to learning exemplified his belief in the power of education to shape lives and empower individuals. Joe was very proud to be inducted to the Hall of Fame.

Joe's fondest childhood memories were rooted in Cramerton, where he grew up surrounded by the warmth of family. He carried that love into adulthood, cherishing the moments spent with his loved ones. One of his proudest family traditions was celebrating Christmas together, a time filled with laughter, love, and the unbreakable bonds of family. He was a co-founder and member of the Gaston County Senior Men's Golf Association. The members of the Senior Golf Association will be Honorary Pallbearers. He was a member of Parkwood Baptist Church.

He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 60 years, Patty Blankenship Eller, with whom he shared many years of love and companionship. Joe is also lovingly remembered by his children, Randy Allen Gibson and Ricky Dale Gibson (Pam), and his grandchildren, Davis Gibson, Charlotte Gibson, and Shannon Buckley, and 4 great grandchildren, his sister, Janet Triplett Eller, who were central to his life and filled his days with love and laughter. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Grady Ralph Eller and Mable Carwell Pence Eller, as well as siblings Ralph "Dick” Richard Eller, Keith Pence Eller, William “Bill” Pence, Bobby Shields Eller, Nancy Sue Pendleton and Martha Sue Owensby who are cherished in the memories of those who loved him.

A Memorial gathering visitation will be from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 8th at Parkwood Baptist Church, 1729 E. Garrison Blvd, Gastonia, NC 28054. Graveside services will be at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 9th Gaston Memorial Park with Reverend David BelleIsle officiating and Military honors by the Gaston County Honor Guard and the U.S. Army.

A man of deep conviction and warm spirit, Joe touched countless lives through his teaching and coaching. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, dedication, and joy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Memorials may be made to Crisis Assistance Ministry, 805 W Airline Ave, Gastonia, NC 28052

Condolences may be made to www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia (704) 864-5144 is serving the Family.