E.J. King, 78, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus, his Lord and Savior on Thursday, August 2, 2024. He was born June 13, 1946 in Iowa City, Iowa and was the son of the late Emery David and Hilda Brenneman King. For most of his life, he lived in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County.

E.J. is survived by his loving and devoted brother, Jim King of Georgetown GA and his devoted and loving sister and caregiver, Stella King Whetzel and husband John Keim of Penn Laird, VA. Seven nieces and nephews adored him: Candace King of Graham NC, Catherine King (Daniel Hogan) of Graham, NC, Derrick Whetzel (Evette) of Penn Laird, VA, Kevin Whetzel (Phebe) of Lancaster PA, Travis Whetzel (Melissa) of Charleston SC, Brad Whetzel (Brandy) of Mineral VA, and Sherra Whetzel Holland (Jeremey) of Dayton, VA. He was very proud of his sixteen great nieces and nephews: Lauren Whetzel (Kyle) Ruffin, Aaron Whetzel (Abbie), Courtney Whetzel, Madelyn Whetzel, Benjamin Whetzel, Colten Holland, Brennan Whetzel, Jacob Holland, Caleb Whetzel, Olivia Whetzel, Jaden Whetzel, Bailey Whetzel, Olivia Holland, Brady Whetzel, Bryce Whetzel and Blane Whetzel.

E.J. was preceded in death by his parents who were dedicated to caring for him and his special needs. After his father’s passing, his mother continued to provide extraordinary care for him until her death at the age of 90. Also preceding him in death were his brother-in-law, Gary Whetzel and sister-in-law, Pam King. Additionally, two half-brothers, William King and Guilford King preceded him in death. Their children loved him too.

Spending time with his family was important to E.J. and he enjoyed going to the mountains, seeing wildlife, and playing with dogs and cats. He especially liked old rock-n-roll music and knew all the artists and songs they sang. He also enjoyed going to antique car shows and could identify the year and model of many cars. He had a phenomenal memory. He looked forward to times he could spend with his brother in Georgia hunting and fishing. He would strike up a conversation with anyone, he never met a stranger, and everyone loved him. If you had the privilege of knowing E.J., your life was enriched. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

A celebration of his life will be held at Ridgeway Mennonite Church on Saturday, August 10, 2024 at 3:00 pm. Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 2:45 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Rockingham/Harrisonburg SPCA, P.O. Box 413, Harrisonburg, VA 22803.

Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com.

McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.