Joyce Harper Burley, 82, of Osierfield, passed away at home on Sunday, January 28, following a short illness.
Joyce was born in Osierfield (Irwin County) on October 28, 1941. She was raised on the farm along with her eight brothers and sisters. She met her husband, Harold, at the Varsity in Atlanta and they married in 1960. The couple soon moved back to the farm in Osierfield where they made their home and raised their family for the last 63 years.
Joyce loved her family and grandchildren with all her heart. Her greatest joy was her two sons, Blaine and Dale Burley. There was nothing she enjoyed more than teaching them to hunt, fish, and catch rattlesnakes when they were growing up. She was an avid cheerleader for them and their friends, never missing a game or a practice back in the day. She could still recount the stories with great enthusiasm, and she cherished every memory. Joyce was a devoted wife, a fun grandmother and mother-in-law, and a fantastic homemaker who was known for being able to do anything and everything. She did her own carpentry, building and designing most everything on their property. Joyce was also an incredible cook, seamstress, and gardener.
Joyce is survived by her husband of 63 years, Harold F. Burley; sons Blaine (Conni) of Tennille, Georgia, and Dale of Osierfield; grandchildren Blaize Burley Myrick (Collin), Brandt Burley, Brock Burley, and Daci Burley; Niece Tina Harper Mobley (Duane); Siblings June Phillips, Glenda Buchek, Aubrey Harper (Sue), Gail Harper, Michael Harper, and Delphine DeLaneuville (Steve), and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased in death by brothers Albert Harper and David Harper.
Per her wishes, a private celebration of life was held with family.
Paulk Funeral Home, Ocilla, is in charge of arrangements.