Joyce Owens Balentine

Aubrey Joyce Owens Balentine passed away at her home in Decatur, Georgia, on February 14, 2018. She was 87. Born May 14, 1930, Joyce was a proud daughter of Texas. She was fond of sharing her memories of growing up in East Texas, the daughter of Genola and Aubrey Owens, both of whom preceded her in death, and beloved sister of Pat (Abe) Goldblatt, Joann (Lee) Lee, who also preceded her in death, and Dell (Fred) Evans. She married Grady L. Balentine on March 14, 1953. She was a working mother before it was common. Still, she put nothing ahead of her children, daughters Becky (Bill) Tatgenhorst and Karrie (Jim) Lawrence and son Grady Jr. (Siri). We all have warm memories of her working to ensure our childhood was full of joy. Her grandchildren, Susan (Stacey) Sparks, Lindsey Tatgenhorst, Tiffany (Scott) Vannerstrom, Bryan Lawrence and great granddaughter Ansley Sparks, to whom she was Bubby, kept her young at heart. Nothing brought her greater joy than being with her family, both immediate and extended, just talking and sharing experiences. Grady Sr. preceded Joyce in death and the knowledge that she will see him again in heaven, along with her parents and sister, brought her the greatest comfort. She is and will be greatly missed.