July 6, 2021, 82, Pikeville –

Joseph “Joe” Earl Sasser, 82, of Pikeville passed away Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at home surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be held Friday, July 9, 2021 from 6 until 7:30 p.m. at Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro. A graveside service will take place Saturday, July 10, 2021 at 10 a.m. at Eureka Cemetery in Eureka.

Mr. Sasser was born in Wayne County on November 11, 1938 to the late James Robert and Sophie Lancaster Sasser. He retired from the Goldsboro Fire Department after 32 years of service. Before his illness, he loved fast cars and fishing. He was affectionately known as “Pa” and “Pa Joe” to his grandchildren.

Mr. Sasser is survived by his loving, devoted wife of 62 years, Mary Lancaster Sasser; one son, Joseph Michael Sasser and wife, Becky, of Pikeville; two daughters, Mary Jo Sauls and husband, Tom of Eureka and Michele Bass and husband, Keith of Eureka; one sister, Audrey Chase of Pikeville; six grandchildren, Cassidy Barrow (Tyler), Tyler Gray (Michele), Brandon Sauls, Kris Bass (Alexis), Jesica Bass (Corie) and Riley Sasser (Deja) and eight great-grandchildren, Caison, Skyler, Ryan, Landon, Hope, Faith, Caroline and Aubrie.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Carlton Sasser and one great-grandchild, Macy.

The family would like to give a special thanks to 3HC Home Health & Hospice for the care and compassion they provided.

The family is in the care of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.