Obituary of Joseph Thomas Harwell

Joseph Thomas Harwell, 71 of Roanoke died on Friday morning, November 2, 2018, at the Virginia Veterans Care Center after a long struggle with Lewy Body Dementia.   He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Vicki Stone Harwell, his sons Joseph F. Harwell and Crispin A. Harwell, and sisters Paige, Barbara, Betty, Ann, and Faye. Also surviving are his loving  parents-in-law, Iris and Blair Stone, and steadfast friends Martha and Ronnie Updike.  He was predeceased by his parents, Calvin and Isabelle Harwell, sisters Susan and Jeannette, and brothers Welford and Calvin.

Joe was raised on a farm near Waverly, Virginia.  He graduated from Waverly High School in 1966 and served four years in the U.S. Air Force before settling in Roanoke. His working years were spent with General Medical Corporation (McKesson), Commonwealth Medical Supply, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, all jobs he enjoyed and where he was recognized as a dedicated and conscientious employee.  Joe was also popular with his customers at Blue Ribbon Boutique on the Roanoke City Market where he worked by Vicki’s side for seventeen years.

Our family is grateful for the kindness and compassion shown to Joe and to us during his time at the Virginia Veterans Care Center.  The dedicated staff made a very difficult journey bearable.

Arrangements will be private at the Harwell family cemetery near Waverly.  In lieu of flowers,  a donation to Friends of the Blue Ridge Parkway, PO Box 20986, Roanoke, VA 24018, would reflect Joe’s love of nature and the many miles he and Vicki traveled that beautiful road together.Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home. (540)366-0707.