Joel Dawson Yon Sr.

Joel Dawson Yon, of Eutawville, South Carolina, husband of Patricia Yon passed away on April 23, 2026, at the age of 82.

Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Joel was the son of the late Cecil Yon and Claudia Pickney Yon.  He was also preceded in death by his brother, Barry Yon.

Joel was a dedicated and hardworking man who spent over 40 years in the HVAC industry, earning a reputation as a trusted and skilled professional. His customers affectionately referred to him as “the go-to man” for his ability to fix just about anything. In addition to his HVAC career, Joel was deeply involved in his family’s business, Yon Brothers Garage, where he worked as a mechanic building race cars. The garage gained recognition for cars driven by notable racers such as Cale Yarborough and Dale Earnhardt. Joel himself had a passion for racing and competed in stock car and late model races at Summerville Speedway. 

Joel shared a friendship with the late Dale Earnhardt Sr., and the two enjoyed spending time together fishing on Lake Marion—one of Joel’s favorite pastimes.

He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, achieving the rank of E-5.

Joel is survived by his loving wife; his children, John Buice Jr. (Jan) of Johns Island, Ricky Buice (Karen) of Forest City, North Carolina, Joel Yon Jr. (Debbie) of Ohio, and LeAnn Crangle (Randy) of Harleyville; his grandchildren, Shannon Buice, Amber Merryman (Bob), Kristen Hubbard (Hub), John Buice, Monica Stacy (Tanner), and Cole Mize (Brooke); and six great-grandchildren.

Joel will be remembered for his mechanical talent, his love of racing and the outdoors, and the many friendships he built throughout his life.

Services with military honors will be held privately by the family.

Memorials in Joel’s honor may be made to Soldiers’ Angels, which supports veterans across America.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at avingerfh.com/.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Avinger Funeral Home, 2274 Eutaw Rd, Holly Hill, SC 29059, (803)496-3434.