Joseph Ford Cearley

Joseph “Joe” Cearley, age 76 of Morganton, passed away Saturday, November 25, 2023, at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta. Born July 28, 1947, Joe was the son of Ford Cearley and Muriel Jones Cearley. He was a member of Liberty Hill United Methodist Church and served with distinction in the United States Army. 

Joe attended Young Harris College before receiving additional degrees from the University of Georgia, North Georgia College, and Troy State University. Drafted into the Army in 1970, Joe attended language school and served his country in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged in 1973, having earned Bronze Star and Expert Marksmanship medals, among others.  

A lifelong educator, Joe taught high school and college classes for over 30 years. After retiring, he enjoyed following politics and was a faithful fan of UGA football and Atlanta Braves baseball, supporting both teams through thick and thin. Joe loved visiting with his friends, spending time with his grandchildren, and maintaining ties with cousins and other extended family.

Joe is survived by his daughters, Gretchen Cearley Hill and Jennifer West; son-in-law Joe West; grandchildren Joseph Cearley West and Aisling, Arlo, and Marian Hill; brother Alvin and sister-in-law Cheryl Cearley; sister Patricia Kefalos; niece Kelsey DuMars; nephews Alex Cearley and Stanford Kefalos. Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Susan Francis Cearley. Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024, from the Henry-Cochran Funeral Home Chapel from 1:00 PM-2:00 PM. A memorial service will follow the visitation at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Joseph Cearley to Special Olympics.

 Cochran Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Joseph Ford Cearley.  Sign the guest book and send condolences to the family at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com