On March 27, Jones County lost a champion when Joseph Franklin Wiggins, Sr. of Trenton, NC passed away. After graduating from Jones Central High School, Wiggins began farming. After his marriage, he took on extra jobs at Farmers New Dixie Warehouse before running for Jones County Commissioner in 1998.

A huge supporter of the Coastal Plains Livestock Show and Sale, Wiggins believed it afforded the youth who took part in educational and growth opportunities. He cultivated his love for growing fruit in a small orchid behind his house. He served Jones County for 20 years, with 10 of those years as Chairman of the County Commissioners.

“Joe was committed to the citizens of Jones County, his faith, his family, his community. He worked as an advocate for the farmers of Jones County, and served on local and state boards,” said Jones County Board of Commissioners Chairman Frank Emory.

Wiggins was instrumental in the support of the new high school in Jones County. His leadership and knowledge provided a foundation of support for Jones County.

“Joe was a true public servant. He always had the County’s best interest at heart,” said County Manager Franky Howard. “He served the people of Jones County well whether it was on a local committee or a statewide board with the Association of County Commissioners.”

Wiggins spent two decades dedicated to the well-being of the county he called home and his desire for it to prosper.

“His goals were best wishes for progress, prosperity, and security for Jones citizens,” said Jones County Commissioner Sondra Ipock-Riggs in a comment on his obituary site. “Joe believed by working together to make Jones County a better place to live and work and made great accomplishments and kept the tax rate down through good management by providing the needed services for everyone in the county.”

Wiggins developed bonds with the people he worked with on different boards and committees.

“My friendship with Joe began when we served on the ASCS committee back in the 1980s. I had the honor of being a Commissioner with him for 12 years. He always tried to do what was in the best interest of the citizens he served,” said Commissioner Mike Haddock. “He will truly be missed.”