COMBS — Joe Pete Dietz,

83, of Combs passed away Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at his home. He was born Monday, May 20, 1940, at Galveston, Texas, to Joe and Henrietta Cecile Hergesell Dietz.

Joe married Betty Sue Thornberry on Saturday, May 20, 1961, at Combs, Ark., and was father to two children. He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force and was a printing press operator for Standard Register.

Joe dedicated over two decades of his life to serving as a firefighter and first responder, embodying compassion and the desire to help others in need. Joe found joy in the simple pleasures of life, riding horses, the tranquility of hunting and fishing, the camaraderie of rodeoing, and the arts of woodworking and Dutch oven cooking. But above all, Joe’s heart belonged to his family and friends. He treasured the moments shared with loved ones, as a devoted husband, a nurturing father, a doting grandfather, and a steadfast friend to many.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; and one grandson, Cody Wayne Dietz.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Betty Dietz, of the home; one son, Eddie Dietz, of Combs; one daughter, Pam Clark, of Durham; five grandchildren, Brandon, Tyler, Zach, Bradley, Chelsea, and Ashley; and three great-grandchildren, Jayden, Cooper, and Oakley. He is also survived by one sister, Henrietta Mounce, of Delaney; several nieces and nephews; his beloved Siamese cat, “Tuffy”; and his dogs, “Hoss” and “Bear”.

The family will host a graveside memorial service at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 30, 2024, at the Combs Cemetery. Cremation is entrusted to Brashears Funeral Home and Crematory of Huntsville.