Dr. Joseph Harrison Elrod

Dr. Joseph Harrison Elrod, age 84 of Sparta, NC; passed away Tuesday, May 26th, 2026 at Margate Health and Rehab in Jefferson, NC.

Joe was born November 14th, 1941 in Watauga County, NC to the late Joseph Alfonzo and Margaret Hampton Elrod. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Eileen Kelsey Elrod.

Joe was a member of Mt. Zion United Methodist Church in Piney Creek. He earned a PhD in Zoology and retired from a career in fishery research with the United States Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service. Following his retirement, Joe remained very active in the community. He taught math classes at Wilkes Community College, volunteered at the public library, and worked at the local book store. Joe faithfully followed Alleghany High School wrestling and proudly considered himself their number one fan.

Survivors include a sister, Martha Eggers and husband Charles of Rural Retreat, VA; two nephews: Dean Eggers and wife Robin of Max Meadows, VA, David Eggers and wife Susan of Boone, NC; cousins, Matthew Storie and wife Melanie of Boone, NC, Martin Storie and wife Tracey of Huntersville, NC; his canine companion, Polly.

Memorial Services to honor the life of Joe will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, June 6th, 2026 in the chapel of Thomas Family Funeral Service. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hagen Kelsey Scholarship Endowment at South Dakota State University Foundation, Lohr Building, 815 Medary Avenue, Brookings, SD 57006 or to Appalachian State University, Advancement Services, Watson Brumit Hall, ASU Box 32014, Boone, NC 28608, Attention: Joseph H. and Eileen K. Elrod Endowment for Biology Income Scholarship.

The family would like to give special thanks to Joe's neighbors, Janet and Keith, and Cindy and Gary.

Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Elrod family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

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