Mark Earley Justus, May 31, 1965 - July 17, 2022, age 57.

Mark was born in Charlotte, NC to the late William Gaston Justus and Florence Boyd Berryhill.  In addition to his father, Mark was preceded in death by his half brother, Spencer H. Allen, and uncles John "Jack" Boyd and Stephen Parker Boyd. Mark is survived by his daughter, Amanda Louise Justus; mother Florence Berryhill; brother Everett S. Justus (Angie); nephew Lance Justus (Maggie); step son Christian Gutierrez, and many cousins and a large extended family of close friends.

Mark was a much sought after finish carpenter. He spent years in Florida and California before arriving in Bakersville to help care for his "Daddy" Wayne and Uncle Stephen to whom he devoted his life for three years.

Mark was an avid reader and could hold his own on almost any topic. Mark's mission was to help other people. He was known to many as "Papa Smurf" because he "took care of everybody" young and old. He was an accomplished chef and took great joy in pampering his family and friends with his creations.

Mark loved canoeing and explored many rivers camping along the way, both alone and leading groups. It is hard to imagine this world without him!

A combined celebration of life service will be held for Mark and his "Daddy" Wayne at 2:00 PM Saturday, July 30, 2022 at the Vians Valley Presbyterian Church at 343 Highway 80 in Bakersville, NC. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated by Vians Valley Presbyterian Church, PO Box 202, Bakersville, NC 28705.