The Hon. Joseph R. John Sr.

October 13, 1939 - January 20, 2025

Obituary For The Hon. Joseph R. John Sr.

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 is 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 AM. 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.

Services

29 Jan

Viewing and Visitation

12:00 PM - 05:30 PM

First Presbyterian of Raleigh 112 S, Salisbury St Raleigh, NC 27601 Get Directions »

30 Jan

Mass of Christian Burial

10:00 AM

St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church 5801 Falls of Neuse Rd. Raleigh, NC 27609 Get Directions »

by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

January 30, 2025

Nancy and Alan Ferguson

Joe John served this state so well in many capacities. He was a good friend to my father, Mark Short, during his time in Greensboro. He will be sorely missed by so many. Our sincerest condolences to Evelyn and the John family. Nancy & Alan Ferguson
January 30, 2025

Jenny Kotora-Lynch

My deepest sympathy to family, friends, and all of North Carolina. I met Judge John a few times at the legislature and fundraisers (I was mostly a face in the audience). He was unfailingly perceptive, wise, able to cut through to the heart of an issue. And he was kind. We have lost a great public servant. I wish you all comfort in his memory.
January 30, 2025

Gordon Still

So sorry for your loss. Joe was an extraordinary man who will be sorely missed.
January 30, 2025

Barbara Still

Joe was my hero. He was a gentleman and a crusader. An example for all of us. I will miss him. Barbara Still
January 29, 2025

William A. Marsh III, District Court Judge, (Ret’d)

An honorable advocate, judge and most importantly, a man. Condolences and God's blessings upon the the John family. William A. ("Drew") Marsh III, District Court Judge ( Ret'd)
January 29, 2025

Leslie Davis

I had the pleasure of working with Judge John during his many years at the N.C. Court of Appeals. He was a great jurist & was very well respected. I am grateful I got to know him & appreciate his many years of public service. He will be greatly missed.
January 29, 2025

Pricey Harrison

Dear family of Rep John, I am so sorry I missed you at today's legislative tribute. I worked with Rep John for several years. He was brilliant, thoughtful, insightful, patient, kind, and the best kind of public servant. I will very much miss working with him. My deepest condolences. With love Pricey Harrison
January 29, 2025

Jennifer Councilman

Evelyn and family I am so deeply sorry for the loss of Joe. He was one of the best men I have ever known and had the pleasure to work with. He was a friend to many and a treasure to the State of North Carolina. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. i stopped to see him today and pay my respects. My love prayers are with you. Jennifer Councilman
January 29, 2025

Peter Kima

Joe, Andy and family. I stopped by today to pay my respects. I found it easy to do so. I thank Joe Sr. For gifting us you both. For guiding you to become who you are today along with some of your other friends like a Joe Cobb. It was easy to say thank you to Joe Sr. For through you he touched my family. He impacted my kids and in turn me. I thank you and your Dad for that. The ripple effect he has is immense in many arenas. We are just one example. Kima Family
January 29, 2025

Addison Wollett

My deepest sympathy. Sending love and prayers to the entire family. -Addison Wollett
January 29, 2025

Kristen Barrick

Thinking of you guys, prayers for all of you during this time.
January 29, 2025

Seth Danylko

Joe John, Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this time of loss.
January 29, 2025

Blanche Taylor

My deepest sympathies to your family- What a special man! God bless each of you during this time. You are surrounded in prayers. Blanche Taylor
January 27, 2025

Balu & Sundari Balakrishnan

Our thoughts are with the family and all North Carolinians that he represented with grace and hard work. We will miss his presence, friendship and wisdom at all future events. - Balu and Sundari Balakrishnan
January 27, 2025

Judge Bob Hunter(Marion)

Joe was a mentor of mine at the North Carolina Court of Appeals. North Carolina has lost a wonderful, dedicated public servant who's done so much for our citizens. I've also lost a good friend.
January 26, 2025

Rep. Gloristine Brown

Condolences to the family. Thank you for all your wisdom.