Mr. Joe Lewis Diggs was born on May 12, 1961, to Gracie Mae Fitzpatrick and the late Luke Junior Diggs, II. In addition to his father, Luke Jr. Diggs II, he was preceded in death by his wife, Debra Kay Diggs; two brothers, James Thomas Diggs and Luke Junior Diggs III; and three sisters, Darlene Gilmore, Catherine Ellerbe-Smith, and Linda Moore; he is also preceded in death by his grandparents, Hattie Mae Diggs and Luke Junior Diggs, as well as Viola Ellerbe and Willie Lee Ellerbe.
Joe attended High Point Central High School and Guilford Technical Community College, where he successfully earned his GED. With a strong work ethic, he dedicated himself to his roles as a mechanic and construction worker, often working long hours, seven days a week, to ensure that his family was well taken care of. His commitment to his work was matched by his love he had for his family; he was a devoted husband, a nurturing father, and a cherished grandfather, always there to offer support, guidance, and a warm smile.
His lively personality would light up the entire room. His contagious energy swept through the room, turning every party into an unforgettable celebration.
He leaves to cherish his memories: three daughters, Joenika Diggs (Ray Quan Withers), Jamie Beckwith (Larry), and Lisa Stoner; he also leaves behind his mother, Gracie Mae Fitzpatrick; one sister, Mae Ellerbe (James Lloyd), and one brother, James “Pete."Diggs; thirteen grandchildren, Ny’Turius, Javion, Lexani, Brayden, Aubrey, Jemia, Larry Jr., Shanya, Ricardo, Isabell, Alex, Christian, C.J.; six nieces, Juanita Ellerbe, Tina Williams, Neco Ellerbe, Linda Ellerbe, Shenelle Johnson, and Sonya Hines; eight nephews, Gary Hines, Jr., Lil Rob, Ronnie Ellerbe, Levern Green, Aaron Covington, and Somseng Paengrord (Sam); a special niece, Moniqua McCall and his best friend, Mont Green, as well as a host of other relatives and friends who will cherish his memory.
Funeral service will be held Friday, January 30, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel. The family will receive friends at the chapel from 12:30 p.m. until 1:00 p.m.
Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.