Joe Earvin Utley was born to the late Everette Utley and Lois Poe Utley on November 1, 1938, the 9th child of 12.

Joe confessed Christ at an early age at Douglas Chapel AME Zion Church in Holly Springs, NC.

Joe attended Wake County Public School and drove the school bus for Apex Consolidated School.

Joe enjoying fishing, working on lawn mowers, driving trucks, and gardening with his grandson.

Joe was also a dedicated employee at Reynold Aluminum Company for 37 years in Raleigh, NC.

Joe had the kindest heart and always willing to help someone along life's journey. He had a special love for his nephews and nieces.

Joe was happily married to Christine Adams Utley for 64 years.

Joe is preceded in death by his daughter; Diane Scott; granddaughter; Tonya Sutton; 11 brothers and sisters; Everette Utley, Jr., Pauline Wilson, Doreatha Wilson, Lorine Burt, Louise Underwood, Sidney Lewis Utley, Charles L. Utley, Leonard Utley, Edgar Utley, Raymond Utley and Wallace Utley.

Joe leaves to cherish his memories and continued legacy his wife, Christine Adams Utley of the home; daughters, Marjorie Gail Utley and Vicky Carol Ray both of Clinton, NC; son Derek L. Utley of Clinton, NC; 5 grandchildren, Joseph Ray (Darianna), Durice Utley (Brandi), Sa-Mar Utley, Tiara Taylor and Tawanda Scott; 4 great-grandchildren, Skylar, Isabella, Ivy and Jaylon Ray; 13 other great-grandchildren; One special niece/sister; Brenda Utley Davis; One special cousin; Pauline Richardson; 2 brothers-in-law, Willie Underwood and James Adams (Patricia); 4 sisters-in-law, Eloise Adams, Patricia Utley, Elnita Utley and Gladys Adams, and host of other relatives and friends.

Public Viewing: 3:00 - 6:00 pm on Monday, April 21, 2025, at Trice Funeral Home Chapel, 127 N. West Street in Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526,

Visitation: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at Douglas Chapel AME Zion Church in Holly Springs, NC 27540.

Funeral will be held at 12:00 pm on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at Douglas Chapel AME Zion Church, 201 Douglas Street in Holly Springs, NC 27540.

Burial: Church Cemetery