Damascus, Virginia
Joseph Avery “Joe” Widener, 76, passed away May 15, 2023 at Valley Health & Rehab in Chilhowie, Virginia with his family by his side.
Joe was born March 11, 1947 to the late Elmer “Pap” Widener and Martha Suzanna Blevins Widener. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Patsy Widener; son, Allen Widener; brothers, Jake, Ray, and Pitch; sisters, Stelle, Melvina, and Frances.
Joe was the owner/operator of the Damascus Chevron for over 40 years. He was a member of the Laurel Avenue Church of Christ.
Joe is survived by two sons, Frankie Widener and wife Christy and David Widener; one daughter, Angie Groseclose; grandchildren, Justin Widener and wife Brittany, Katie Bernard and husband Matt, David Widener and wife Renee, and Brendon Widener; great-grandchildren, Landon, Cadence, Macey, Charley, Maddison, Carter, Skylar, Salem, and many others who thought of him as Papaw Joe; brothers, Harry Widener and wife Nancy and Howard Widener; sister, Belle Arnold and husband Dewayne; special friends, Jr. and Pauline Turnmire, Eddie Evans, Hank and Rose Price, Roger Milhorne, and others who spent many hours on the loafers bench in front of the old garage.
Joe will be remembered for his jokester ways and big smile. He will be forever in our hearts.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, May 17, 2023, from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at Frost Funeral Home in Abingdon, Virginia. A funeral service will follow at 7:00 P.M. with Minister Wayne Baker officiating. A graveside service will be held Thursday, May 18, 2023, at 11:00 A.M. at Sunset Memorial Park in Damascus, Virginia. Those wishing to attend the graveside service are asked to arrive at the cemetery by 10:45 A.M.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Dementia Society of America, P.O Box 600, Doylestown, Pennsylvania, 18900 or to Laurel Avenue Church of Christ, P.O. Box 324, Damascus, Virginia, 24236.
Frost Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to serve the Widener family.