Joe William Derting

Abingdon, VA - Joe William Derting, age 85, passed away on Sunday, June 16, 2019, at Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, Tennessee following a long illness.  He was born in Hiltons, Virginia (Scott, Co), a son of W.O. “Bud” Derting and Dollie Grove Derting.  

In addition to his parents, Joe was predeceased by his son, Robert William Derting; sister-in-law, Edith Morelock Derting; and nephews Alan, Steve, and Jake Derting.  

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Janet Miller Derting; son, Thomas Miller Derting (Anne Keesee Derting); grandson, William Ryland Derting; granddaughter, Allyson Kate Derting; brothers, John Franklin Derting and Claude Wallace Derting (Helena Roop Derting); nieces: Sandra Woods (Jim), Terry Derting, and Barbara Amaya (Cleo); nephews: Glenn Derting (Karen) and Patrick Little (Tina); several great-nieces and great-nephews; and niece-in-law, Cathleen Gray Derting. 

After graduating from Hiltons High School and Berea College in Kentucky, Joe spent from 1955-57 in the 3rd Armored Division of the United States Army stationed in Germany.  Upon being honorably discharged, he accepted a job as assistant agricultural Extension Agent for Washington County Virginia in Abingdon.  This was the perfect position for Joe, who was raised on a farm and enjoyed nearly all outdoor activities.  With the exception of 3 years (2 when he was Extension Agent in Pulaski Co., VA and the other when he was studying for his Master’s Degree at Virginia Tech), he spent all of his professional life as an Agricultural Extension Agent in Washington Co. until his retirement in 1991.  

Joe was a quiet, modest man of character who was known for his honesty and dependability.  He was one of the first to help a friend, neighbor, or stranger, and one of the last to leave when there was work to be done.  Joe enjoyed spending time with his family, and went to Hiltons to help his parents on the farm nearly every weekend of his life in Abingdon.  After retirement, he spent more time at the farm, but also had time to try to teach his grandchildren everything he thought a child should know.  

In 1991 people began urging Joe to run for the Board of Supervisors.  At first, he hesitated because he was not a politician; then he accepted because he knew Washington County like the back of his hand, and had a deep love for the county and its people.  He served on the Board for 12 years, and as Chairman for 8 of those years.  

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 20, 2019, at the Main Street Chapel of Farris Funeral Service in Abingdon, Va.  The funeral will begin at 7 p.m. following the Visitation, with the Rev. Clarence Dishman officiating.  Music will be provided by Mrs. Rose Payne and Mrs. Nadine Culbertson.  Military honors will be provided by the Virginia Army National Guard. 

Friends and relatives of Joe W. Derting are invited to attend an informal Celebration of Life ceremony for him at 2 p.m. on Sunday, September 29th.  It will be held at the Derting-Hickham Cemetery located on Claude Derting’s property, 11437 Bristol Hwy., Hiltons, VA (Hwy 58 between Bristol and Gate City).   From Claude’s house, reaching the cemetery involves driving or walking down one small hill, across a creek, and up another hill through a pasture; therefore, it is suggested that guests wear informal clothing and comfortable shoes.  Rides will be provided for those who would rather not walk or drive. Some folding chairs will be available at the cemetery, but guests are welcome to bring their own if they prefer.

One of Joe’s primary wishes was to be buried at the “home place” where he was born, grew up, worked beside his parents nearly every week-end of his adult life, and worked there even more often after his retirement.  On Sunday afternoon, Sept. 29th, we will be bringing Joe’s ashes home, where he wanted them to rest. Joe would not have wanted this gathering to be a solemn occasion; therefore, we hope family and friends will share their stories and memories of him, and come prepared to laugh and enjoy each other’s company.  Light refreshments will be served at the house afterwards.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the 4-H College Scholarship Fund.  Checks should be made out and mailed to: Washington County 4-H, Washington Co. Extension Office, 234 W. Valley St., Abingdon, VA  24210; OR to the Derting-Hickam Family Cemetery Fund, c/o Claude W. Derting, 11437 Bristol Hwy, Hiltons, VA  24258; Or to a charity of your choice.

Those wishing to express sympathy online may do so by visiting www.farrisfuneralservice.com and signing the online guestbook.  The family of Joe William Derting is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service and Crematory, 427 E. Main St., Abingdon, VA 24210 (276-623-2700)