Joseph Dale Spangler, 85, passed away Sunday, November 1, 2026, at Atrium Health Cleveland Hospital. Born in Cleveland County on June 11, 1941, he was the son of the late Carl M. Spangler and Fannie Lou Kistler Spangler. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Denice McKee; his brother, Carl Spangler Jr.; and two nephews, Roger "Butch" McKee, Jr. and Carl "Chuck" Spangler, III. Dale attended Piedmont School and graduated from Shelby High School. He continued his education at Gardner-Webb University, where he played tennis and competed in the javelin, before graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in Business. He later served his country in the United States Army.

Following college, Dale joined his father, Carl, in the roofing and construction business. Over the years, he built a successful business career and developed a diverse real estate portfolio throughout Cleveland County. He also enjoyed traveling and was fortunate to see much of the world, especially through overseas trips with friends. Those who knew Dale will remember that his accomplishments were only part of his story. Dale had a quiet way of making people wiser, steadier, and more encouraged than they were when they first sat down with him. He was a thoughtful mentor and friend who believed in people, offered guidance without needing attention, and often pulled someone aside to answer a question or share a bit of knowledge.

Dale loved geography, investing, work, family stories, and the lessons found in ordinary experiences. He had a way of turning a story into a lesson and a lesson into encouragement. His stories could be funny, practical, educational, or tender, and he carried a positive spirit into each one. Those closest to him cannot recall a single time he spoke negatively about anyone; he seemed always to find something generous, useful, or hopeful to say.

Dale was adventurous and independent. He traveled widely, enjoyed dancing, and continued to exercise, walk, and explore throughout his life. He loved vibrant colors and unforgettable watches, belts, and shoes. He loved his cats for their wildness and loyalty, and he seemed drawn to joyful, outgoing people whose energy he could quietly join.

Although he was reserved, he was never lacking in warmth, humor, or wonder. Dale shaped places and people without needing public credit. He helped develop what is now Moss Lake and chose many of the street names in its communities. His work can still be seen in homes throughout Shelby and Uptown Shelby, including places he built, remodeled, owned, sold, or helped bring to life. He helped build a community, but he also built confidence in the people around him. His quiet influence may be the part that lasts longest.

Dale never had to announce his accomplishments. He wrote them into the places and people around him. The people who loved him will remember not only what he built, but how he made them feel: noticed, capable, encouraged, and a little more ready for what came next. Dale was a man whose kindness and generosity touched many lives. His faith in the Lord was an important part of who he was, and he lived that faith through the way he treated others and the generosity he showed to those around him. He was a member of Double Shoals Baptist Church in Shelby.

Dale is survived by his sister, Dorothy "Dot" Spangler; his brother, Don Spangler (Maxine); his dear friend, Rita Scism; and many loving nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews.

To honor the life of Mr. Spangler, the family will receive friends from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM on Friday, November 6, 2026, at Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, November 7, 2026, in the cemetery of Double Shoals Baptist Church, with Pastor Brian Johnson officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Dale's memory to Baptist Children's Homes of North Carolina, Laura's Homes, 1305 N. Post Road, Shelby, NC 28150.

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.