Rev. James "Leroy" Joyce

Reverend James Leroy Joyce, 85, 1204 Washingtson St. Eden, passed away Friday evening June 28, 2013 at Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro, NC. The funeral service will be held Tuesday July 2, 2013 11 am at Fair Funeral Home Chapel, with Burial to follow in Ridge-View Memorial Gardens.

Reverend Joyce was born May 14, 1928 in Leaksville, NC to the late Christopher C. Joyce and Sallie Odell Joyce. He was an ordained minister for 30 years, served as an evangelist for 10 years and retired as minister of Shady Grove Baptist Church after 14 years. He also worked as an insurance agent for Western-Southern Life Insurance Company for 30+ years. Reverend Joyce served briefly in the US Army.

Surviving are his niece Betty J. Aheron and husband Jack of Eden; three nephews Doug Joyce of Eden, Ed. W. Joyce and wife Mara of Cleveland Georgia, Robert M. Joyce of Danville, VA and several cousins. Preceeding him in death are his wife, Freda Wilmoth Joyce, daughter Toni Adams DeHart, and four brothers.

Visitation will be held Monday evening 6 until 8pm at Fair Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes that any memorials or donations be made to Hospice of Rockingham County: 2150 NC 65, Reidsville NC 27320, or to any church of the donors choice.