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Mrs. Joyce Gertrude Asby Lawrence, age 87, of Elkin, NC, passed away at Chatham Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on Friday, February 10, 2023. She was born January 24, 1936 in Beaufort County, NC to Olivia Charlotte Asby and Alton Roland Morris. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by sisters, Dorothy M. Smith, Sharon M. Stone, and Betty Lou M. Siehl, and brothers, Larry Morris and Pete Morris.

Surviving are her children, Cecil (Margaret) Lawrence of Elkin, NC, Debbie (Danny) Hege of New Port Richie, FL, Donna (Perry) Lyon of Ronda, NC, Doughton Lawrence (David Dunaway) of Chicago, IL, and Barry Lawrence of Elkin, NC; her sisters, Joan A. Padgett and Patricia M. Woolard, both of Washington, NC, 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Joyce’s crowning accomplishment in life was her family. She married Winfred Doughton Lawrence, Sr. in April 1953. After 57 years of marriage, her husband passed away on July 27, 2010. Joyce’s passion for life and love of her children kept her going. Joyce and Winfred raised five children. They made a perfect team balancing each other’s strengths in providing a wonderful upbringing for their children that extended well into their adult lives. Theirs was a true love story and partnership that created a home full of love and laughter. Joyce was an excellent cook, who took great pride in providing for family and friends. She also enjoyed gardening, canning, and baking. She was a woman of great faith and love for her family, friends, and community. Her authenticity and sincerity remained steadfast throughout her life. She was always optimistic and found the good in everyone and in every situation even during life’s challenges. It was her love of family and God that kept her inspired and driven to live a life of kindness and forgiveness. Joyce never had a bad word to say about anyone, and always sought fairness, acceptance, and true love for all.

Joyce has been a member of Welcome Valley Baptist Church since September 1986. She enjoyed participating in church activities and the fellowship of other members. Although later in life she was unable to attend, Joyce’s heart remained with her church community where she was loved and revered by many.

Joyce’s legacy will continue to live on through her loving family and those who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be greatly missed by all whose lives she has touched.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, February 14, 2023 from 6:30 p.m. -8:30 p.m. at Elkin Funeral Service.

A funeral service will be conducted Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Welcome Valley Baptist Church with Rev. Bill Jenkins officiating. Mrs. Lawrence will lie-in-state prior to the service from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the church. The family request everyone to please wear a facial mask.

The family would like to thank the staff of Chatham Nursing and Rehabilitation Hall 400, for their care.

Online condolences may be made to www.elkinfuneralservice.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Elkin Funeral Service.