Joseph Robert Wilfong

Joseph Robert Wilfong, 89, of San Jose, CA, and previously of West Virginia, passed into Eternity on Monday, May 15, 2023, from the comfort of his home.

He was born in Hurst, WV, on March 7, 1934, the sixth son of the late Charles W. Wilfong and Ola Grace Tallman Wilfong. In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by five brothers: Charles (infant), Glenn, Leonard, James, and Jack Wilfong.

Joe is survived by his youngest brother, John Wilfong and wife, Marie, of Kerrville TX; one sister-in-law, Joan Wilfong of Inverness, FL; and a large extended family of nieces and nephews in PA, FL, AZ, CO, TN, and OR.

Joe grew up on dairy farms in Hurst and Lightburn, WV. He despised milking the cows but absolutely loved driving the tractor and doing other farm work. While Joe liked the farm animals, he was more addicted to sleep and did not appreciate the cows’ early morning needs. Joe also spent time in a boy scout troop in Jane Lew, WV. He attended school in Jane Lew through 8th grade before advancing to Weston High School in Weston, WV. Joe joined the United States Air Force before graduation and completed his GED while in the service. He was trained as an Airline Mechanic and initially served domestically but was eventually sent to Japan during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged on June 9, 1960. After discharge, Joe moved to Long Beach, CA, where he worked as an Airline Mechanic. Following this employment, he secured a job with FMC Corporation in the Weights and Measurements Unit of the Food Division. He was transferred to the San Jose Divisional Headquarters in 1972 where he remained until retirement. Joe was a dedicated professional and lead many initiatives for FMC over the years. He also introduced software solutions and pioneered the use of artificial intelligence to improve the productivity. Thus, he was awarded the Most Valuable Contributor Award for his company. While Joe was a confirmed bachelor, he thoroughly enjoyed all his brother’s families. They were scattered all over the country and Joe visited often in his younger years. Whether it was weddings, graduations, or family reunions, Joe always showed up. He was a generous man and gave much when he recognized a need. Joe was a community leader and dedicated much of his time to serving his community as an active member of the local senior center providing technical support and educating seniors about technology. He also volunteered and contributed to the local food bank. Joe acquired many life-long friends during his time in California. Darlene Pierce was a friend and business partner. Joe met his friend, Terry, at college more than twenty years ago. Terry and her mother visited Joe often and even planted an avocado tree in his yard. This tree was home to the neighborhood squirrels and birds which delighted Joe as he enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid bird watcher. Joe was a beloved brother, brother-in-law, uncle, community leader, technology innovator, investor, colleague, and friend to many.

Family and friends will gather for a Graveside Service at Good Hope Masonic Cemetery located at 9230 Good Hope Pike in Lost Creek, WV, at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 2, 2023, with Pastor Mark Evans officiating. Interment will follow with full military honors accorded by the United States Air Force and Lewis County Honor Guard.

We, at Pat Boyle Funeral Home and Cremation Service located at 144 Hackers Creek Rd. in Jane Lew, appreciate the service of Joseph Robert Wilfong, and it has been our honor to serve his family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.PatBoyleFuneralHome.com.

BRIDGEPORT, WV (WDTV)