Joseph Columbus "Joe" Vawters, of Rockford departed this earthly life January 22, 2023. He was born February 22, 1950 in Rockford the son of Thomas Sr and Merion Vawters.  Joseph married the former Linda Clark, February 10, 1977.  He was employed as a machinist at Atwood and Chrysler Corporation. Joseph was a member of New Zion Baptist Church. He graduated from West High School.

Joseph leaves to cherish many loving memories, his wife, Linda; two daughters, Patrice (David) Olukoya and Joe Marie Brown; two sons, Joseph Vawters and Joseph Clark-Vawters; 11 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; two sisters, Delgracia (Warren) York and Beverly (Walter) Washington; two brothers, David (Alisha) Vawters and Dexter Vawters; a host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his parents; son Thomathy Vawters; brothers, Thomas, Jackie and Steve Vawters and sisters, Debra Cain and Mildred Vawters.

Services will be held 4:00 p.m. Saturday, February 4, 2023 at Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave. Visitation will be held 2:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.at Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.