Joe Lewis Rankin

Mr. Joe Louis Rankin, age 85, of Conover, North Carolina, entered peacefully into eternal rest on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Catawba Valley Medical Center in Hickory, North Carolina.

Born on May 23, 1941, in Hickory, North Carolina, Joe was the beloved son of the late William Rankin, Sr. and Edna Greene Rankin.

A man of unwavering faith, Joe was a devoted member of Coulter's Grove AME Zion Church, where he faithfully worshipped and served for many years. He was a dedicated member of the Steward Board, faithfully supporting the ministry and helping to strengthen the work of the church. His faith in God guided his life and was reflected in his service, humility, and commitment to others.

Joe was a proud graduate of Ridgeview High School in Hickory, North Carolina, where he distinguished himself as an outstanding multi-sport athlete. He continued his education at South Carolina State University, where he earned his Bachelor's degree while continuing his success as a student-athlete. His passion for athletics, combined with his discipline and determination, remained with him throughout his life.

Joe dedicated his professional life to education. As a respected educator, he taught for many years in Virginia and North Carolina, inspiring and mentoring countless students throughout his distinguished career. He retired from the Catawba County School System, leaving behind a lasting legacy of excellence, service, and commitment to education.

Joe's passion for sports extended far beyond his playing days. He served as a sports referee for many years, earning the respect of athletes, coaches, and fellow officials for his fairness, integrity, and knowledge of the game. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he was also a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan who rarely missed the opportunity to cheer on his favorite team or enjoy conversations about athletics with family and friends.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by four brothers, Alfred Rankin, Christopher Rankin, William Rankin, Jr., and Alfonzo Green; and five sisters, Edna Conley, Linda Morrison, Alean Elston, Julie Emma Rankin, and Joyce Henrietta Rankin Burch.

Those left to cherish his precious memories include his loving and devoted wife, Rosa Rankin of Conover, North Carolina; his beloved son, Ryan Shuford of Matthews, North Carolina, and daughter-in-law, Jaime Shuford; four cherished granddaughters, Cortney Stephens, Kirsten Shuford, Ashleigh Lambert, and Camry Hope; one treasured great-grandson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, dear friends, former students, colleagues, and all whose lives were blessed by knowing him.

Joe Louis Rankin will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, faithful church member, dedicated Steward, accomplished educator, respected sports official, mentor, and friend. His life was marked by faith, integrity, service, and a deep commitment to helping others. Whether in the classroom, on the athletic field, in his church, or with his family, Joe lived a life of purpose and left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. His legacy of faith, education, sportsmanship, and love for his family will continue to inspire generations to come.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

“His Lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” — Matthew 25:23 (KJV)

The funeral will be 2:00 P.M. Sunday, July 19, 2026 at Coulter's Grove A.M.E. Zion Church with Pastor Michael Hester officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:30-2:00 P.M., and burial will follow at the church cemetery.

Please sign the online guestbook on the Memorial Wall at www.jenkinsfuneralhome.net. The Rankin family has entrusted arrangements to Jenkins Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Newton 828-464-1555.