Joel Leath Jessup

Joel Leath Jessup, 69, of Bear Creek, passed away on Friday, October 30, 2026, at SECU Hospice House in Pittsboro, NC. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, November 2, 2026, at Brush Creek Baptist Church Cemetery with Dr. Jeffery Midkiff presiding. Joyce-Brady Chapel will be open from 1:00-5:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 1, 2026 for friends to sign the register.

Joel was born in Chatham County on June 24, 1957, to Howard Jessup and Clarice Taylor. Living in Bear Creek all his life, he was a member of Brush Creek Baptist Church, and a self-employed cabinet maker, carpenter, farrier and a man of many talents.

Joel loved woodworking and fixing things. In his spare time, Joel spent his time riding his treasured horses and enjoyed watching old westerns such as Gunsmoke, Andy Griffith, and Bonanza. He loved to travel to Lexington with Cheryl, explore the flea Markets and finish the day with some Lexington BBQ.

Mr. Jessup is survived by his life partner of 27 years, Cheryl B. Hillard; 3 biological children; Jamie Jessup, of Asheboro, David Jessup (Traci), of Liberty, Daniel Jessup, of Siler City; Cheryl's children, John H. Hillard, JR. (Jennifer), of Siler City, and Jana Hernandez (Moses), of Texas. He is also survived by one sister Martha Jessup Paulson, of Arizona; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was blessed with a special aunt, Henrietta Taylor, special cousin, Ruth Ann Peterson and special friends, Lenny and Loraine David. Special thanks to Sara and Gaither Tucker. He was loved by a host of family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Brush Creek Baptist Church Cemetery Inc., c/o Judy. Lane,  45 John Lane Rd., Bear Creek, NC 27207.

Condolences may be offered online at www.joycebradychapel.com

Joyce-Brady Chapel of Bennett is honored to serve the Jessup family.