Joseph Garland Houk age 86 of Galax, Virginia passed away Monday May 8, 2023 at his home.

Mr. Houk was born on January 8, 1937 in Grayson County Virginia to Mack Clarence and Fannie Moser Houk. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers Donald S. Houk and Robert Lee Houk.

Affectionately known as Daddy Joe and Poppy, he was a long time and well-respected horse trainer. He would welcome all to sit on the bench and share horse stories. If you needed some help or some advice on your latest horse problem, he was more than happy to share his knowledge. He also spent many years working in the furniture industry which produced more stories for sharing with friends and family.

Joe and Linda (aka Grandma) shared 68 years together. Although not always in agreement with each other, they found great joy in sharing a meal with family, friends, and especially grandchildren and great-grandchildren It was a common sight to find Poppy instructing how to drive the tractors, with Grandma keeping a watchful eye on them.

He is survived by his wife Linda Caudle Houk of Galax, Virginia; daughters and sons-in-law Robin Houk Gillis and David of New Mexico; Denise Edmonds and Jimmy of Galax, Virginia; grandchildren and spouses Joseph Adam Houk and Ashley; Emily Miller and Brian; Dustin Edmonds and Ashley; Erin Brooke Rodgers and Austin; Corbin Jones; great-grandchildren and spouse Dakota Baker and Shane; Caden Miller; Cash Edmonds; Briggston Houk; Emerson Miller; Grey Rodgers; Finnley Mae Houk; sister and brother-in-law Mary Ann and Tommy Hollingsworth of North Carolina; several nieces and nephews; sisters-in-law Zandra Houk and Frances Houk; sister-in-law and husband Jewel and Dean Cornett.

A graveside service will be held Thursday at 3:00 PM in the Felts Memorial Cemetery with Carl Chappell officiating. There will be no visitation at the funeral home.

He will not be forgotten but held close in our hearts and minds until we see him again and the stories will not end.