'The most selfless people I have ever met': Beloved NC State Fair couple loses home in devastating fire

A beloved Raleigh couple behind the success of the North Carolina State Fair had their home destroyed in an overnight fire.

Caretakers Joe and Ronda Crosby have lived on the grounds since meeting at the fair and getting married more than 20 years ago.

“We have someone who lives here that is here if things happen off-hours to be here to take care of things for us,” said North Carolina State Fairgrounds director Kent Yelverton.

The Office of State Fire Marshal is investigating the cause of the fire since it is state property.

The Crobsys are staying in a hotel in the meantime.

Yelverton explained what happened to the Crosbys, who were featured on WRAL News’ “Tar Heel Traveler” segment in October 2021.

“They woke up about 3 a.m., Joe’s sister is here visiting with them now,” Yelverton said. “She is the one who heard the smoke detector, and woke Joe and Ronda up and got everybody out the house. [It included] their dog Boone as well.”

“That is devastating,” said Cade Tischer, a friend of the Crosbys. “[It's] really hard to hear.”

Tischer said he considers the Crosbys as family.

Joe Crosby became a handyman for the farm his family owns.

“They really are a special couple,” Tischer said. “[They are] the most selfless people I have ever met. [They are] always putting everyone else before themselves.”

Friends near and far stepping up to help the Crosbys during a difficult, unexpected time.

“We hope to salvage some personal property, but the house is certainly a total loss,” Yelverton said.

Friends and other North Carolina State Fair leaders have started GoFundMe pages to raise funds for the Crosbys.