Joseph Harrison Lanier, age 89, of Hendersonville, NC passed away on September 15, 2025 at UNC Pardee Hospital in Hendersonville, NC.  Joseph was born in Davidson County, NC on October 15, 1935 to the late Alex Stewart Lanier and Metta Addie Harrison Lanier.

Joseph proudly served our country in the United States Army.  He previously resided in BelAir, MD, Thomasville, NC and Asheville, NC.  He graduated from Western Carolina University with a BA, MA, and EdS.  He also graduated from Duke University with an EdD and from The Union Institute with a PhD.  Joseph was a member of Phi Delta Kappa.  Joseph was employed as a Clinical Neuropsychologist.  He was affiliated with Lutheran Church of the Nativity.  He adored his Pomeranians, Bleu and Chiot.

Joseph is preceded in death by his granddaughter, Jillian Lee Lanier.  He is survived by his children, Mary Kathryn Lanier, of Asheville, NC and Joe Harrison Lanier, of Travelers Rest, SC; his brother, Charles Edward Lanier (Linda), of Plainfield, IL; and his grandchildren, Jacob Alexander Bowers, of Wilmington, NC and Kristina Marie Bowers (Kate Rawson), of State College, PA.  He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, great-nephews, and great-nieces.

A memorial service will be held on November 23, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Lutheran Church of the Nativity, 2425 Hendersonville Rd, Arden, NC 28704.  Reverend Dr. Sean Barrett will officiate the service.  Please join the family after the service for a reception.  Hors d'oeuvres and beverages will be served.  All are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the Pastor’s discretionary fund in Joseph’s name: Lutheran Church of the Nativity, P.O. Box 208, Arden, NC 28704.