Joseph Mel Rhoney, Sr., 70, of Valdese, passed away on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at his residence, following a short period of declining health.
Mel was born December 12, 1953 in Iredell County, to the late George Pinkney Rhoney Sr. and Mary Lee Smith Rhoney. He loved traveling, especially to Mexico and Honduras. Mel never met a stranger and if he did, he befriended them quickly.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Elaine Rhoney Lewis.
He is survived by his son, Joseph Rhoney Jr., and wife Gloria; brother, George Rhoney Jr. and wife Jan; sisters, Judy Roebuck, and Susan Drum; numerous nieces and nephews; and his “grandpup” Romana.
The family will receive friends on Monday, June 3, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Heritage Funeral Service in Valdese.
A graveside service will be held immediately following the receiving at Hillcrest Cemetery in Valdese with Pastor Dan Duke officiating.
Memorials may be made to Sipe’s Orchard Home at 4431 County Home Road, Conover, NC 28613.
Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory in Valdese is assisting the family.
Mel was a part of my childhood. When I felt sick at school, my father had Mel come to pick me up and take to my grandmother’s. When the HHS basketball team played and it was packed, Mel would come down the hill and take us through the back door into the gym.
Mel, you were loved.
Mel had a kind heart.
Sorry to hear Mel has passed. My sympathy for the family. We had a lot of good memories together.
Sorry to say I just learned of Mel’s passing. I worked with Mel a various plants throughout the years. We shared some fun memories. I will miss him.