Herman "Joe" Harth Stillinger

Mr. Herman Harth "Joe" Stillinger, 87, of Orangeburg, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2025.

Born on November 11, 1937, in Norway, South Carolina, Mr. Stillinger was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Herman D. and Aileen Fanning Stillinger. A proud native of South Carolina, he built a life rooted in dedication to his family, his work, and his community.

Mr. Stillinger served honorably in the United States Army, demonstrating a commitment to service that would carry through every aspect of his life. In 1976, he and his brother, Carroll became the owners and operators of Stillinger Brother's Body Shop, where he worked tirelessly until his retirement in 2006. Known for his strong work ethic and mechanical skill, he earned the respect of customers and colleagues alike over three decades in business.

A man with a deep passion for classic automobiles, Mr. Stillinger especially enjoyed restoring old Chevrolets and Mustangs. His love for cars was more than a hobby—it was a lifelong pursuit that brought him joy and connected him with others who shared his enthusiasm.

Above all else, Mr. Stillinger cherished his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of over 66 years, S. Ann Stillinger; brothers David "Bubba" Stillinger, Carroll Stillinger, and Danny Stillinger; and sisters Vivian Fogle and Shirley Parler.

He is survived by his sons Jody Stillinger (Tracy) and S. Keith Stillinger (Michelle); grandchildren Tori Bultsma (Brett), Skylar Stillinger, and Davis Stillinger; sisters Lib Gleaton and Patsy Brechlin (Carl); brother Dwight Stillinger (Cindy); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.

A Funeral will be held on August 31, 2025, at 4:00 PM at Thompson Funeral Home Chapel 1012 Whitman Street. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, 2720 Broughton Street, Orangeburg.  Pastor Greg Dowey will be officiating.

The family will receive friends from 2:00-4:00 P.M. on Sunday, August 31, 2025, prior to the funeral service.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Robbie Mills, Todd Jeffcoat, Dwight Stillinger. Mac Stillinger, Ken Davis and Dan Fogle Jr.

Memorials may be made in Joe’s memory to St Jude Children’s Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org.

Mr. Joe Stillinger’s legacy is one of hard work, devotion to loved ones, and an enduring passion for craftsmanship. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire all whose lives he touched.