She was born June 21,1932, in Kannapolis NC to Myrtle and Charles McKinley.
She was a graduate of Fassifern School for Girls in Hendersonville, NC and Catawba College. She used her degree in Education to teach many a third grader.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brothers Bob, Bill and Dick McKinley and her youngest daughter Alice Upright.
She leaves behind, Gene Upright, her husband of 70 years, two daughters; Lori Upright Smith (Theron), Monica Upright (John Rich) , six grandchildren; Josh Nickerson (Kristie Sanchez), Andrew Capps, Alexander Capps, Marshall Smith (Gretchen), Jacob Smith (Ashley), Rachel DeVore (Darin), eleven great grandchildren; a sister-in-law; Sue McKinley as well as loving nieces and nephews.
Joyce was a lover of nature; she rescued many baby birds and our family’s squirrel, Rocky. She had an insatiable curiosity about anything and everything. Joyce always thought of others, and never complained. She had a quick wit and a kind demeanor. Without exception all the nurses and aides who cared for Mom during her short illness commented on what a sweet woman she was.
The family wishes to thank Agape Hospice for their incredible loving support, especially Crystal Blair and Susan Shank both of whom, in a very short time, felt like family.
Family Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm Friday, October 7, 2022 at Dunbar Funeral Home, 3926 Devine Street, Columbia SC 29205.
Graveside Service will be held 11:00 am on Saturday October 8, 2022 at Greenlawn Serenity Gardens, 6701 Windwan Drive, Columbia, SC 29209.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 3909 Forest Drive, Columbia SC 29204.
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