
RALEIGH — North Carolina Rep. Joe John (D-Wake) died Jan. 22 at the age of 85 after a battle with cancer, per an announcement made on John’s official Facebook page by his family.
“With profound sadness and deep gratitude for his life, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Representative Joe John Sr. After a courageous battle with cancer, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family,” the post said.
“In his final days, Joe found comfort and joy in the presence of his loving wife, Evelyn, his children, and his precious granddaughters. We are eternally grateful for the time we shared with him—each moment filled with laughter, love, and his unshakeable integrity. His spirit and the lessons he imparted will continue to guide us in the years ahead.”
The family also said details of funeral arrangements would be announced soon.
John had just announced his resignation from the General Assembly earlier in the week, citing a terminal throat cancer diagnosis.
The Wake County lawmaker was entering his fifth term when he resigned. He held the distinction of having served the state of North Carolina not only as a legislator but also as a former director of the state crime lab as well as a judge on both the Court of Appeals and Superior Court. He also ran the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles for a time.
North Carolina House Minority Leader Rep. Robert Reives (D-Wake) said in statement, “He was one of the best men I’ve known — a strong leader, outstanding public servant and a great friend. Everyone who met him knows how kind Rep. John was to everyone in the room. His commitment to our state and its people will be sorely missed. I am keeping his family in my thoughts and prayers.”
The North Carolina Democratic Senate Caucus also issued a statement from its leader, Sen. Sydney Batch (D-Wake).
“Today, we mourn the loss of a true servant leader of North Carolina, Representative Joe John. Rep. John’s dedication to the people of our state, his tireless pursuit of justice, and his compassion for those he served leaves an indelible legacy that will continue to inspire generations of individuals called to lead,” Batch said. “Rep. John exemplified what it means to serve with dignity and selflessness. From his years on the bench, to the executive branch, to his service in the General Assembly, he brought integrity, wisdom, and humanity to every role he undertook.”
North Carolina Speaker of the House Destin Hall offered his prayers to John’s family.
“I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of our colleague, Representative Joe John. He served the people of Wake County with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of his district and our state,” wrote Hall in a post on X. “Representative John was not only a valued member of the North Carolina House of Representatives but also a friend to many of us, and he will be dearly missed by those of us who had the honor of serving with him. He has certainly left a lasting legacy, and my thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones tonight.”
Both Gov. Josh Stein and former Gov. Roy Cooper also offered statements about John’s passing.
“Joe John had a remarkable career. As a judge, he was thoughtful and just. Anna felt privileged to have clerked for him on the Court of Appeals,” wrote Stein in a post on X. “As Director of the State Crime Lab, he raised its standards so our scientists could succeed. And as a legislator, he has been a champion for justice and public education. Judge John was kind and good. Anna and I will miss him very much and send our condolences to Evelyn and their kids Steffi, Joe, and Andy. May his memory be a blessing.”
“My friend Joe John has been a courageous champion for everyday people as a lawyer, Judge, Crime Lab Director and legislator. I pray for his family and loved ones, knowing he has made a real difference for so many,” Cooper said in a statement on X.
The Wake County Democratic Party will select John’s replacement in a meeting to be held on Jan. 28. The selected individual’s name will then be transmitted to the legislature by the governor.
The General Assembly convenes for the 2025 session on Jan. 29.