Joe Taffy Fadel III's Obituary
Joe Taffy Fadel, III, 92, of Norwood, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Atrium Health Hospice & Palliative Care Union.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at the Stanly Funeral Home Chapel in Locust, with Father Peter Fitzgibbons officiating. There will be no formal visitation.
Born on February 22, 1933, in Mecklenburg County, Joe was the son of the late Joe Taffy Fadel, II, and Marie Joseph Fadel. He was a devoted father and grandfather who will be remembered for his infectious laugh and warm smile; when Joe laughed, everyone around him laughed too.
Joe had a deep love for the outdoors. Gardening was one of his great passions, and in his younger years he was an avid hunter, skilled with both bow and rifle. He also enjoyed collecting firearms alongside his two brothers. Horses held a special place in his heart, and his love of horseback riding was proudly passed down to his daughters. Joe also had a passion for shag dancing and often competed with his sisters.
A perfectionist by nature, Joe proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Quality Specialist, spending two years overseas. In his youth, he was voted “Best Dressed” at Central High School and was well known as “Little Joe” for his fierce play on the football field.
Joe spent much of his professional life working alongside his brother, Bobby, at Western Electric, where he dedicated 45 years of service before retiring.
In his later years, despite pain and suffering, Joe cherished time with his family and found comfort in his faith, looking forward to his eternal home in Heaven.
He is lovingly survived by his daughters: Tina Abernathy of Charlotte, Teresa Smith (Stratton) of Charlotte, Maria Atkinson (Mike) of Midland, and Lisa Fadel of Mint Hill; his grandchildren, Jason, Joshua, Jacob, Michael, Kayla, Justin, and Andrew; and his great-grandchildren, Christina, JJ, MJ, Nathan, Matthew, Charlotte, Beck, and Maddison. He is also survived by his former wife, Carol.
In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his brothers, Robert and Albert Fadel; his sisters, Elizabeth “Lib” Stavrakis and Louise Turner; and his grandson, Jesse.
Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Locust is serving the Fadel family.
What’s your fondest memory of Joe?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joe?
Share a story where Joe's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joe you’ll never forget.
How did Joe make you smile?