January 10, 2022, 96, Goldsboro –

Joe Ben Sauls, 96, transitioned from this life to his Heavenly Home on Monday, January 10, 2022, surrounded by his family. Born in Wayne County on October 26, 1925, he was the son of the late Ernest Jackson and Ethel Taylor Sauls. Joe Ben moved with his family to the Adamsville Community at a young age where he helped his father run a small country store. He graduated from Goldsboro High School in 1944 and served his country in the United States Navy.

In addition to his parents, Joe Ben was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Katie Fields Sauls; son, Ernie Sauls; grandson, Ben Sauls, Jr.; granddaughter, Claire Sauls; three brothers, Edward Sauls, Howard Sauls, and Donald Sauls; and sisters, Grace Sauls, Geraldine S. McDonald and Gaynelle Kennedy.

As a former owner and operator of Best and Sauls Men’s Shop in Goldsboro, many looked to Joe Ben for his attention to detail as he kindly assisted those who entered his doors. Customers became friends through the jovial encounters they came to expect and appreciate when dealing with him.

Going on fishing trips and watching Carolina Basketball games were favorite pastimes for Joe Ben, most especially when enjoyed with friends. More than anything he enjoyed spending time with his family. Joe Ben had a passion for working in the yard, whether at his home in Goldsboro or at his place in Emerald Isle. Neighbors and passersby would often stop and compliment him on the beautiful and well-kept appearance of his home.

Dedicated and faithful to his church, First Christian, Joe Ben served his Lord through its various ministries. He was a solid foundation for the Tuesday morning prayer gathering at Wilbur’s where he spent time in prayer for those that he knew needed a touch from the Lord. His care, devotion, and compassion for his wife was incomparable, as he visited her at least three times a day at the nursing home, feeding her and attending to her every need. His compassion extended beyond family as he was known to visit the sick and homebound throughout the area, letting them see that someone cared for them.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 13, 2022 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Seymour Funeral Home followed by a service to celebrate Joe Ben’s life at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel with Rev. Frank Purvis officiating. Interment will follow at Willow Dale Cemetery.

Joe Ben is survived by his daughter, Betty Jo Smith and husband, Roger of La Grange; sons, Benjamin Kaylor Sauls and wife, Kitty of Goldsboro and Randall Malloy Sauls and wife, Jewel of Goldsboro; grandchildren, Stephanie Smith Bass, Jonathan Smith, Julie Smith, Heather Sauls Honeycutt, Joe Sauls, Carmen Sauls Price, and Emily Sauls Lewis; ten great-grandchildren; sister, Marie S. Allen of Raleigh; and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to First Christian Church, 1609 E. Ash Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530 or to Eden Christian Church, 7450 U.S. Hwy. 13 North, Snow Hill, NC 28580.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.