Joseph “Joey” Vickers, age 78, passed away Monday, February 16, 2026 at his home.

Joey was born on Sunday, December 14, 1947 in Rutherford County, to the late Grover Vickers and Lillie Burgess Vickers. He served honorably in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War. Joey worked for various textile mills for several years. Later, he became the owner and operator of Sandy Mush Rugs. He served as a volunteer fireman for the Sandy Mush Fire Department for several years and was of the Baptist faith. Joey was an avid collector, enjoyed making pottery, loved fishing and spending good times with his family. Even during his recent health issues, he had an enduring sense of humor. He loved his family dearly and will be greatly missed by all.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Joseph Frank “Frankie” Vickers and a brother-in-law, Eddie Greene.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife of fifty-nine years, Janice Vickers; daughter, Joni Vickers (Josh) of Bostic; son, Jason Vickers of Forest City and grandchildren, Lillie Vickers and Gabriel Vickers.

A memorial service will be held at 7:00 pm on Friday, February 20th at the Harrelson Funeral Chapel with Reverend Tony Rayfield officiating. Military honors are being provided by the Rutherford County Honor Guard. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time at the funeral home.

Memorial donations are requested to the Rutherford County Senior Center, 193 Callahan-Koon Road, Suite 132, Spindale, NC 28160.