Joseph Browning, Jr.

Joseph Browning, Jr. passed away on May 20, 2026, at his home. Born on September 17, 1932, in Meadowview, Virginia, Joseph lived a life marked by dedication to his family, his business, and the simple pleasures of hunting and spending time at the lake.

Joseph’s journey began in Meadowview, where he was born to his parents, Joseph A. Browning and Sara Ethel Arnold, both of whom preceded him in death. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two children, Caroline Kenney and Bobby Browning; granddaughter, Maria Stocker; and the mother of his children, Beatrice Browning.

He embraced an active lifestyle, finding great fulfillment in hunting and enjoying the tranquility of lake life. These pastimes reflected his appreciation for the outdoors and the peace it brought him amid the demands of daily life. Mr. Browning was the owner and operator of Joe's Grocery, a familiar place for many in Bristol, Tennessee.

Joseph is survived by his devoted daughter, Mary Stocker, who carries on his legacy; grandchildren, Ryan Kenney, Nicole (Andy) Newland, and Shauna (Mat) Housley, who remember him with love and admiration; and sixteen great-grandchildren, whose lives he helped shape with warmth and guidance. Several nieces and nephews remain grateful for his presence in their lives, as do many close friends who valued his friendship and kindness.

Visitation to honor Joseph will take place at the Farris Funeral Service – Main Street Chapel, located at 427 E. Main St., Abingdon, VA 24210, on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A graveside service will follow on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Mountain View Baptist Cemetery, 26697 Old Saltworks Road, Meadowview, VA 24361, beginning at 10:00 a.m. with Rev. Barbara Farmer officiating. Pallbearers will be Joanne Morris, Todd Barrett, Mat Housley, Jase Housley, Ryan Kenney, and Ronnie Bridgeman.

Those wishing to express sympathy online may do so by visiting Farris Funeral Service and signing the online guest register. The family of Joseph Browning is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service & Crematory, 427 East Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210, (276) 623-2700.