A graveside service for Joe David Orsborn, 76, was held on December 31 at Emory City Cemetery.
Mr. Orsborn died on December 24, 2025, at Christus Hospital in Tyler. He was born on March 24, 1949, in Greenville, to Lynn Sparks Orsborn and Mary Jean Nettles Orsborn. He was a proud member of a family with a rich history. He was inspired by his great, great, great grandfather, Emory Rains. His grandfather, Gus Sr. and two uncles, Gus Jr. and Max, were legendary sheriffs known for their integrity.
With over 30 years of experience on the road, Mr. Orsborn earned accolades for his trucking career, finishing the distinguished million-mile safety award—an impressive testament to his dedication and professionalism.
He was a man full of life, characterized by his honesty, wit, and fun-loving nature. He had a reputation for telling it like it was. His interests reflected his spirited lifestyle; he loved rodeo, John Wayne, George Jones and the simple pleasures of life, finding joy in farming and spending time at home with his family.
He is survived by his wife, Debbie Orsborn, with whom he shared 30 wonderful years; sons, Terry Shelton and wife Stephanie, Vic Smith and wife Lisa, and Gary Don Smith and wife Adrianna; grandchildren, Maddie, Aiden, Tyler, Trevor, Brianna, Gabriel, and Dario; sister, Mary Lynn Vasser; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends he cherished.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Paul Sparks Orsborn; and brothers, Paul Sparks Orsborn and Tommy Gus Orsborn.