Ervin John “E.J.” Huffstickler Sr., age 81, of 784 Spindale St. Spindale, NC passed away Tuesday at Hospice House. E.J. was a native of Rutherford County, a retired truck driver for Carolina Trucking, a US Army Veteran, a 32nd Degree Mason and life member of Spindale Masonic Lodge, little league baseball coach and a devoted member of Spencer Baptist Church. Left to cherish his memory is his son Jay (Sandra)Huffstickler, son Allan Huffstickler; daughter Rene~ (Tom) Lansphere ; sisters Muriel Smith and Ella Mae (Roselle)Lawson; 8 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. E.J. was preceded in death by his parents Columbus and Lela Mae Owens Huffstickler; daughter DeDi Bateman; sisters Louise Lawson and Vada Lovelace. Memorial services will be held at 11 AM Saturday at Spencer Baptist Church with Rev, Bruce Caldwell officiating. The family will receive friends from 10-11 prior to the service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Spencer Baptist Church Youth Ministry 187 N. Oak St. Spindale, NC 28160 A special thank you to: Bruce and Ann Caldwell, Marlene Coffey, Judy Martin, Spencer Baptist Church, and Hospice of Rutherford County for the love and assistance given during E.J.’s illness. E. J. loved you dearly and you will always be remembered by our family.