Joseph L. Wolfe III, 77, made a career in insurance
February 6, 2020
Joseph Lester Wolfe III of Murrells Inlet died Jan. 3 at his home after a long illness. He was 77.
He was born Nov. 13, 1942, in Charlotte, the son of Joseph Lester Wolfe Jr. and Caroline DaVega Wolfe. The family moved to Florence when Joe was 5. He graduated from McCleneghan High School, where he excelled at golf and tennis, in the class of 1960. He attended Davidson College and was a member of the tennis team. He remained an active athlete throughout his life.
Mr. Wolfe was president of City Ice and Fuel Co., a business started by his grandfather in the 1940s. He later had a lengthy career in the insurance business, serving the needs of the Florence community and beyond. He was known in the business world for his attention to detail, honesty and integrity.
In 1965, he married Carolyn Moss. They became the parents of a son, Les, whom he adored. They were members of the First Presbyterian Church of Florence. While they enjoyed traveling, they moved to Murrells Inlet in 2011 and became members of Pawleys Island Presbyterian Church, where they made many new friends.
In his leisure time, Mr. Wolfe had a passion for cycling and excelled at marksmanship.
In addition to his wife of 54 years, he is survived by his son, Joseph Lester Wolfe IV (Anne); his brother Henry DaVega Wolfe (Debbie); his grandchildren, Chappel Pinckney Wolfe and William Rutledge Wolfe, and many extended family members.
A graveside service is planned at a later date at Old Orchard Cemetery in Petersburg, Tenn.
Memorials may be made to Pawleys Island Presbyterian Church, Florence Presbyterian Church or the charity of your choice.
There is a guest book at goldfinchfuneralhome.com.
