Joseph Robert John Sr.

1939 - 2025

Joseph Robert John Sr.

October 13, 1939 - January 20, 2025

Joseph "Joe" Robert John Sr., of Raleigh, NC, a devoted public servant and cherished family man, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on October 13, 1939, in East Chicago, Indiana. Joe lived a life dedicated to academic excellence, professional achievement, and an unwavering commitment to both his family and the state of North Carolina.

Joe's academic journey was one of deep curiosity and intellectual rigor. He began his studies at Belmont Abbey College before earning a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His passion for learning led him to study abroad, first at the University of Paris on a Fulbright Commission and French government grant, and later at Heidelberg University through a summer program. He returned to UNC Chapel Hill to earn both a Master's in Comparative Literature and a Juris Doctor degree. His education continued with specialized legal training, earning certifications from Northwestern University and the National Judicial College.

Joe's distinguished career in public service spanned the highest levels of North Carolina's government. A trailblazer, he became the first and currently remains the only person to serve at the highest levels in all three branches of state government including roles as Director of the State Crime Lab, Acting Commissioner of the NC Department of Motor Vehicles, and Judge on the NC Court of Appeals. In 2016, Joe embarked on a new chapter in his public service, winning election to the North Carolina General Assembly as the representative for North Carolina House District 40. He served four terms, spanning 2017-2024, and was recently elected to serve his fifth consecutive term in November of 2024.

A licensed member of the NC State Bar, Joe's influence extended far beyond his government roles. He was an active member of various bar associations and contributed to his community through organizations such as the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Raleigh and Greensboro. In recognition of his contributions, the NC State Bar honored him with the "Fifty Years of Service" award in 2021, and in 2000, Governor Jim Hunt presented him with the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine, North Carolina's highest civilian honor..

Joe's dedication extended beyond work and public service, his love for his family and his deep pride in his personal interests were unmistakable to all he encountered. A far cry from the bookish intellectual stereotype, he was a lifelong fan (fanatic) of the Carolina Tar Heels, New York Yankees, and Washington Commanders. He brought joy and excitement to family gatherings, always ready to share his enthusiasm for his favorite teams, a trait he passed along to his children as well as anyone else he could convert.

Joe survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Evelyn John; his daughter Steffi Briley and granddaughter Lessie Ann; his son Joseph Andrew "Andy" John II and his wife Allison, along with their daughter Annabelle; his son Joseph "Joe" Robert John Jr and his wife Julie, their children Aden, Ella, Remy, Dagny, and Samantha; his sister Andrea Webb and her husband Gary, and their three sons; and his brother the Hon. Steven John and his wife Susan, and their son. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Andrew John and Stephanie Ann John.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Raphael's Catholic Church at 5801 Falls of the Neuse Rd Raleigh, NC 27609, on Thursday, January 30th, at 10:00 a.m. Joe will be buried in a private ceremony at the Old Chapel Hill Cemetery on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Details on a public visitation will be announced on social media and we invite all to pay their respects to Judge John.

In lieu of flowers, the family would request your consideration in making a donation to the "Joltin' Joe" Fund (https://gofund.me/90a0d78c). Initial funds will be used to help pay for one of Joe's wishes to be buried at the Old Chapel Hill Cemetery, on campus at UNC Chapel Hill, which requires a significant financial commitment from the family. Funds will also be used as the endowment of the Joltin' Joe Foundation that will be created in his honor, working to support those who share the call to public service.

Joseph Robert John Sr.'s legacy of integrity, service, and love for his family will forever inspire all who knew him. His invaluable contributions to North Carolina's legal and governmental systems and his unwavering commitment to bettering his community have left an enduring impact on the state he so dearly loved.