On Monday, April 21, 2025, the journey of Alzheimer's ended, and the victory was won as God gathered our beloved Rev. E. Joe Tomberlin into his loving arms and carried him to his eternal home.

Left to cherish Joe's memory is the love of his life and devoted wife of 51 years, Marlene Wilson Tomberlin; a sister, Johnnie Scott, of Richlands, NC; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Rotha & Dahlia Wilson; brother-in-law and wife, Michael and Naomi Wilson all of Mars Hill, NC.

Other surviving family members include: Sharon Davis (Ambrose) of Fairview NC; Rev. Jeffery Tomberlin (Sandra), of Leicester, NC; Joe Tomberlin, (Debra), John Tomberlin (Brenda) of Weaverville, NC; Michael Scott (Faye) of Hephzibah, GA; Kelly Whitney (Rick) of Yulee, FL; Mark Scott, Donald Scott of Richlands, NC; niece-in-law, Deborah Tomberlin of Asheville, NC; and nephew, Chris Wilson (Jenay) of Marshall, NC; special great-nephews, Logan & Isaac Wilson along with many other great nieces and great nephews, extended family members, church families, and friends.

Preceded in death are his father and mother, Hasket and Bessie Tomberlin; a brother, Jay Tomberlin Sr. and wife, Alice; brother-in-law, Keith Scott; and a nephew, Jay Tomberlin, Jr.

Joe was a faithful bi-vocational pastor who dedicated over 43 years to serving churches in Madison and Haywood Counties hand in hand with his beloved wife Marlene, who stood as a constant source of support and partnership in his ministry. He loved the Lord, His Savior and was honored by the calling God had given him. His commitment to God's calling was unwavering, evident in every aspect of his service. Despite opportunities to lead larger congregations, Joe remained devoted to smaller churches, humbly serving as an under-shepherd to his flock. Joe's passion for sharing God's Word was evident in the countless hours he spent studying Scripture to prepare nourishing messages for his flock. Every week, he would diligently pour over the Bible, seeking inspiration and guidance for his Sunday and Wednesday night sermons. His dedication to caring for the flock was a hallmark of his ministry. As his health declined, Joe gave up his pastoral duties, trusting in God's sovereignty despite the difficulty of this transition. His pastor's heart remained resolute, often expressing his desire to serve another small church and continue sharing God's love.

Beyond ministry, there were many things Joe enjoyed. He enjoyed target practicing with family members, fishing, and reading books on history. He could spend hours pouring over road atlases, fascinated by the geography and landscapes of different regions. Joe also loved traveling, marveling at God's creation, exploring new places and re-visiting his most favorites. Another enjoyment of Joe's was anything with wheels – cars, airplanes and train. He became interested in model railroading. Trains were the most fascinating hobby. He could talk trains for hours. He especially enjoyed train rides. He also had great pleasure in driving Marlene around in Yellowstone and New England chasing moose.

On warm summer evenings, Joe cherished quiet moments with Marlene sitting on the porch swing, watching the fireflies come up and twinkle to life, the sound of rain on the metal roof and frequent visits to the Biltmore Estate for a picnic. Joe also loved spending time with family, church family, and friends.

My heartfelt thanks to the entire staff at Compassionate Care, CVS, Neurologist Dr. Grayson, and Joe's sitters for walking with us on this journey. They all provided excellent care for Joe and also provided support and concern for me. Thank you to our friends who were so faithful with their prayers, cards, meals, phone calls, and visits. Your thoughts and prayers have been a source of comfort and strength for both Joe and I during this journey.

To our family – your unfailing support, love and devotion made it possible for my sweet Joe to be home with me. You were here for us – for such a time as this!!

We are very thankful, grateful, and blessed by God. To God be the glory!! God bless each of you!!

A funeral service will be held at 2pm Monday, April 28, 2025, at Robbie Capps Memorial Chapel of Blue Ridge Funeral & Cremation Service. Reverend Jeff Tomberlin will officiate. Burial will follow in Little Ivy Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 12:30-2pm Monday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please give the gift of Gideon Bibles in memory of Joe through the Gideons International Madison County Camp, PO Box 1182, Marshall, NC 28753.

Joe's life was characterized by humility, kindness, and integrity. He selflessly put others before himself. He led by example and was truly a Godly man.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralservice.org