Joseph Crabtree

Joseph H. Crabtree of Goldston, NC (October 6, 1939 - June 2, 2024) was born in Louisville, Kentucky to Hugh Blakely Crabtree and Dorothy Stratton Crabtree.

In high school, Joe played both the tuba and football—quite the well-rounded athlete and musician. After graduation, he proudly served three years in the U.S. Army. It was at the Butler High School fair where he met the love of his life, Carolyn, just before being sent to the U.S. Army School of Music in Washington, DC. Shortly after, he was deployed to the wilds of Thule, Greenland for a year. Upon his return, he married Carolyn in Louisville, Kentucky. One of Joe’s favorite jokes was telling folks he got married on August 6th and welcomed his baby girl, Lynn, on August 29th—conveniently omitting that it was one year later—just to see the shock on their faces. The couple was later stationed at Fort Rucker, Alabama before finally returning home to Louisville.

Joe built a steady career, starting at the U.S. Postal Service for seven years before moving to Greyhound Bus Lines in North Carolina, where he worked his way up to district manager over two decades. He then worked at the NC Division of Motor Vehicles and ultimately found his last role as a beloved courier for Chatham County Schools. After he retired he volunteered as a school bus driver for field trips and sports events, and served as a softball, baseball, and basketball coach. Joe mentored many and loved working with youth. 

Joe had a deep passion for sports, which he lovingly shared with his grandson, Jason. His love for music, dance, and theater was passed on to his granddaughter, Katy Jane. Many afternoons were spent playing with his grandkids in his immaculately kept yard, with his favorite '50s tunes playing in the background. Joe had equal affection for chocolate malts and Miller Lites, and he always insisted his singing voice wasn’t far off from Elvis Presley’s. He wasn’t wrong! Known for his vocal talents, Joe was a soloist at Cary Christian Church in the '70s and a fierce contender in family karaoke battles on Christmas Eves in the early 2000s.

He loved musical theater, square dancing with his Rainbow Squares troupe, and spending time in the Appalachian mountains. In fact, the mountains had a special place in Joe’s heart, and his connection to that land ran deep.

Above all, Joe’s greatest joy was his family. He adored them, and it showed in his words, his actions, and his unwavering support.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Western NC Hurricane Helene relief efforts—a cause close to Joe’s heart as a life long philanthropist. His love for the area was so strong that he wished to spend eternity in the mountains he cherished.

Joe wasn’t just a husband, father, or grandfather—he was "Everyone’s Uncle Joe," and he will be remembered fondly for his humor, kindness, and enduring love for those around him.