Joseph Phillip “Bodie” Herring went to his eternal resting place on Friday, December 29, 2023. He passed away in his home surrounded by his family and their love for him.
Joe was born April 30, 1951 to Euldine Williams Herring and James Rufus Herring. He is preceded in death by his parents and his two brothers, Roger Williams Herring and Jeffrey Allen Herring. Joe leaves behind his wife of 46 years, Jacklyn “Jackie” Benefield Herring and their three sons, James Phillip (Meg), Robert Chase (Laura), and John Christopher (Mallory). Joe left a lasting legacy on this earth with his grandchildren, Ana, Reese, Alex, Hollan, Brooklyn, Raines, and Merritt. He also leaves behind his brother, James Mitchell “Mickey” Herring, and three sisters-inlaw, Sheila Herring, Sheila Benefield Nolin (Sammy), Mary Ellen Benefield Brown (Bill) along with many nieces, nephews, and other family members. Joe Herring moved to Eufaula, Alabama in 1976 where he met the love of his life. They were married in 1977 and began leaving their indelible imprint on our community. Joe graduated from Troy State University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, and he began working in the oil industry. From there he would come to build Herring Enterprises which encompasses many different industries that positively impacted his community; however, Joe Herring was much more than a businessman. Above all else, Bodie Herring was a family man. His unwavering dedication is a lasting testament of his love and commitment to his children, their children, and his cherished wife.
He devoted his life to leaving a profound mark on all those knew him. He was an active member at First Baptist Church of Eufaula and shared God’s love with all he met. His advice was held in high esteem, and supreme among his priorities was lending a helping hand to those he loved. He was a straight shooter who had a knack for telling you exactly what you needed to hear. Joe possessed an unmatched sharp wit and found immense joy in spending time with those who made him laugh. Throughout the years, Bodie touched so many with his clever humor and unmatched honesty.
Jackie and Bodie’s love story is one for the ages, and the impact they have created throughout our community will be felt for years to come. Joe’s legacy will live on forever through the many stories he shared, the brands he built, and the memories of those who had the opportunity to know him, for those who knew Joe Herring were blessed beyond measure.
Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at First Baptist Church with Rev. Chris Wilkenson and Dr. Ken Bush officiating. Burial followed at Fairview Cemetery Addition with Chapman Funeral Home directing. The pallbearers were Chase Dixon, Denny Hardy, Liston Clark, Joey Bell, Matt Grubbs, Wesley Trawick, Jay Parmer, and Wes Register. Honorary pallbearers were Jeremy Hopper, Bryan Scarborough, Jerry Gulledge, Tommy Gaither, John Deloach, Brock Nolin, Kenny Greathouse, Bennett Ward, Hunter Herring, Clay Herring, Joseph Herring, Mitch Lucky, and Cody Cox.
