Joe Guntherberg

Published 8:44 pm Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Joe Guntherberg, a cherished husband, father, and brother, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, Alabama. Born on March 12, 1947, in the small town of Sewanee, Tennessee, Joe’s life was a testament to his generous spirit, thoughtful nature, and unwavering faith.

Joe, known for his kind-heartedness and sincere dedication to his family, is survived by his beloved wife, Sandy, and their devoted son, Trey. His legacy continues through his caring brothers, Steve Guntherberg and his wife Sharon, Brian Guntherberg; and his loving sisters, Rachel McCauley and her husband Ricky, and Becky Wheeler with her husband Ronnie. He also leaves behind a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Ophelia Guntherberg, and his brothers, Felix and Kevin Guntherberg.

Joe graduated from Middle Tennessee State University. After graduation he served six years in the Army Reserve.

Professionally, Joe made an indelible mark in the corporate world. He was a Human Resources Director over the Southeast working at the Sears Tower in Chicago. Following his Sears retirement, he transitioned to become a respected commercial and personal real estate appraiser in the greater Valley Area. Joe’s professional achievements were only matched by his commitment to community service as an active member of the West Point Lion’s Club.

Joe was a profound servant of the Lord. He was deeply involved in his church, the Lanett First Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon and dedicated Bible study teacher. His passion for faith-based initiatives was further exhibited through his engagement with Bobby’s Backyard Brotherhood, Men of Fire, Men’s Prayer breakfast at the United Methodist church, and the Magnolia Manor Assisted Living. Also, he once a month led cooking breakfast for the church.

Beyond his service, Joe had a love for nurturing the world around him. An avid horticulturist, Joe’s yard was a vibrant testament to his green thumb.

Generous, thoughtful, and faith-filled, Joe Guntherberg’s memory will continue to illuminate the lives of those who had the privilege to know him. He stood as a beacon of love and kindness. Joe’s journey through this life has ended, but his spirit remains a guiding light in the hearts of all who cherished him.

A Celebration of Life service for Joe will be held on Saturday, July 12th, 2025, at 2:00 PM (EDT) at the First Baptist Church of Lanett. Pastor Jake Haley will officiate. Joe’s family will receive friends following the service at the church. During the service, time will be given for friends to share memories. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Lanett First Baptist Church.

Please visit Joe’s Memorial Tribute page at www.johnsonbrownservicefh.com to leave a kind word for his family, to share a memory of Joe, or to light a Remembrance Candle in his memory.

Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home of Valley directing.