Joseph Lehner

Joseph Christian Lehner, age 77, of Raeford, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on May 31, 1948, in Ravenna, Portage Co., Ohio, Joe was the son of the late John William
Lehner, Sr. and Lureda Ninetta Eagleson. He was a proud graduate of North High School in
Columbus, Ohio, and attended The Ohio State University, where he was a member of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity. Joe was a devoted Ohio State University & avid Buckeye fan; rarely missing a game and always cheering on his team with pride.
Joe honorably served his country as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam era. His sense of duty and patriotism remained steadfast throughout his life.
He married Dara Reddick Lehner (née Armstrong), with whom he shared a beautiful life filled with faith, laughter, and family. Together for 47 years, they built a home filled with joy and lasting memories.
Joe was a faithful member of St. James Lutheran Church in Fayetteville, where he actively participated in various committees and ministries. His deep compassion, warm sense of humor, and generous heart were known to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He had a natural gift for making others laugh, and his empathy and kindness touched countless lives.
He found joy in the outdoors, spending time fishing and hunting, but nothing brought him greater happiness than his family. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandsons were his pride and joy, and he cherished every moment shared with them.
Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Dara; daughter, Amber E. Lehner of Fairborn, OH; son,
Phillip H. Lehner (Heather) of Medway, OH; and six grandchildren: Kayla Brocious (Derek),
Kyle Bolin, Neveah Lehner, Lelan Lehner, Dylan Bolin, and Riley Bolin. He also leaves behind
three great-grandchildren: Elijah, Emerson, and Roman Brocious, his sister-in-law Julie Lehner
of Florida, and many extended family members and dear friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings and their spouses: John W.
Lehner, Jr. (Barbara), James E. Lehner, and Robert D. Lehner (Jane).
A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. James Lutheran Church, 1424 Morganton Road, Fayetteville, NC. A memorial service and burial will be held at a later date in Ohio.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Suriya Jayawardena, Dr. Gary Wallace, and their
compassionate teams for their dedicated care and support.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: St. James Lutheran Church, 1424
Morganton Rd., Fayetteville, NC 28305; or Operation Second Chance, 20251 Century Blvd., Ste. 325, Germantown, MD 20874, or to the charity of one's choice.
Joe's legacy of love, laughter, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.