Joyce Sherrill

Mary Joyce Coffield Sherrill, age 82, passed away on September 9, 2024, at Amorem Hospice in Valdese, NC. Born on March 30, 1942, in Martin County, NC, she dedicated her life to education and community service.

Joyce pursued her education fervently, earning her BS, MS, and Eds from Chowan College and Appalachian State University. Her career as an educator spanned over three decades at Valle Crucis Elementary in Watauga County, where she was not only a beloved teacher but also recognized as an Outstanding Young Educator and Teacher of the Year. She enjoyed sharing her love of North Carolina history with her students - one example of this was the summer she spent helping build the Elizabeth II representational ship in Manteo, NC. Even after retiring, she continued to impact lives by working as a tutor and substitute teacher for an additional ten years. Her leadership extended beyond the classroom as she served as the President of Watauga County NCAE and was an active member of Alpha Delta Kappa (a teacher sorority).

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, actively involved at Boone Advent Christian Church. Joyce served in various capacities including treasurer (over 40 years), Women’s Home and Foreign Society member, VBS director, Sunday School teacher, Youth Group leader, Deacon Body leader, and Pastor Prayer Partner leader.

Joyce's hobbies reflected her nurturing spirit: she cherished time with her grandchildren, supporting them at sporting events and enjoying trips to Tweetsie. She also had a passion for shopping, walking on the beach, and eating ice cream. Her gift of hospitality was evident through her efforts to visit church members who were homebound and adopting Appalachian State students to provide them a home away from home. This hospitality extended to the joy of cooking favorite meals for the family and sharing her pound cake baking talent with all. 

Joyce is survived by her loving husband of 60 years Bobby; daughters Cynthia Townsend (Richard) and Sondra Styles (Jay); grandchildren Allison, Hannah, Isaac, Ben, and Noah; brother-in-law Phil Wobbleton; sisters-in-law Peggy Harmon, Barbara Bradley (Sid), Norma Wilburn, and Linda Foster (Bobby); along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Lloyd James and Aurelia Harrington Coffield; brothers Hosea, Charles, Sammy, Henry "Pop," and William Coffield; sister Libby Wobbleton; sisters in law Karen and Alice Coffield; and brothers in law Butch Wilburn and Casel Harmon.

The family is especially thankful for family and friends who helped love Joyce since her diagnosis with Alzheimer’s in 2019.  Special thanks to the Nurses, CNA’s, Social Workers, and Doctors of Amorem Hospice Care of the High Country and Amorem Hospice Unit in Valdese for their loving care of mom.

Services for Joyce will be on Thursday, September 12 at Boone Advent Christian Church. Reverend Mitch Marlowe will be officiating.  Visitation will begin at 12:30 pm followed by the service at 2:00.  

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Boone Advent Christian Church PO BOX 2515 Boone, NC 28607. 

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com

Austin and Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory in Boone, NC, is assisting the family with arrangements. Joyce's life and legacy will be cherished and remembered by all who knew her.

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