June 13, 2024, 70, Mount Olive —

Joseph Kenneth McLear, better known as Joe McLear, passed away Thursday, June 13, 2024, at his home in the East Pine Forest subdivision near Mount Olive.  Joe was 70 years of age. 

His growing-up years were spent in Syracuse, New York, after which he lived in Ohio for a time.  Then, he lived in Mississippi before making North Carolina his home, first in the Seven Springs area and finally, Mount Olive.

Joe had been a turkey grower/farm manager for Goldsboro Milling Co.  He then worked for Swat Pest Control, and lastly, for Smithfield Packing Company before retirement.  He had served in the United States Marines as a young man.

He will be remembered for his enjoyment in joining friends at McDonald’s every morning to get the day started out right.  The group changed with Hardee’s becoming the new gathering place.  He enjoyed fishing and found much pleasure in creating various objects and figures with Legos.  Often he found solitude in his “office” out behind the house.

Joe leaves behind his loving wife, Lynn Marie Charlton, in the home.  He is also survived by a daughter along with several of his siblings.

Friends may see Lynn at the residence.  At the present time, a service will not be held.