Joe White Batten, 81 passed away peacefully after battling a long illness.  Joe was born July 14, 1939 in Johnston County to Nathan and Mable Batten.  He was an automotive mechanic for the majority of his life and could fix anything.

Early in Joe's life he enjoyed driving his race car at local tracks and was an avid NASCAR fan and really enjoyed golfing with his friends and family.  Above all, Joe's greatest passion in life was his family.  He is survived by his best friend and wife for many years, Gwen, his four children; Deborah Bamford (Bill), Donna Gainey, Charlene Stallings (Gerald), and Eddie Jones (Deborah), seven grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and brother-in-law and friend, Don Beasley.  All of whom he loved deeply.  Joe is survived by his sisters, Fannie Holt and Treva Lewis (Fields) and many nieces and nephews who he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by sister Trudy Paul.