James Joseph Joyce

Jim was born on August 1,1951 in Columbus, Ohio to the late Ralph and Mary Joyce.

After receiving his Draft Notice late 1967, Jim enlisted in the Army and was sent to Vietnam in January 1968 and assigned to E Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. While in Vietnam, he received the Bronze Star for heroism and the Purple Heart for wounds in Long Bihn, Vietnam. After his second tour in Vietnam, he was reassigned to Fort Knox, Kentucky and subsequently discharged. He worked in the family funeral business for nearly 4 years but missed the Army. He re-entered Army service and assigned again as an Armored Cavalry Non-Commissioned Officer. After another 24 years and multiple worldwide assignments, Jim retired as the Battalion Command Sergeant Major of 3d Battalion 9th Armored Regiment, Fort Hood, Texas. During his military journey he had some unique opportunities like walking on the East/West border with General Colin Powell and Secretary of Defense Casper Weinberger.

Jim ventured into trucking for a few years, where he found his soul mate and beautiful wife, Tina Fuss. They eventually settled in Henry County and worked together at Henry County Parks and Recreation. Jim also served on the Hospitality and Tourism Board for the City of McDonough for over 10 years.

A natural leader, warrior, and giver, Jim's life and work left a lasting impact on everyone he knew. Beyond his military and civilian career, his true passion was helping his fellow veterans. A tireless advocate for their cause, he befriended, advised, and counseled many veterans over the years. He also co-founded the Henry County Veterans Museum—an accomplishment he was immensely proud of and that will continue to honor his memory. Jim also proudly served as the first Mentor of the Henry County Veterans Treatment Court.

Known for his kind spirit and big smile, Jim was a devoted husband to his wife, Tina. He was a loving and proud father to his children, Glendon and Amy, and a cherished grandfather to Caitlin, Madeline, Conlee, Fionn, and Crosby. Jim's memory also lives on through his in-laws Robert and Jill Katers, Judy and Fritz Ness, Pete and Jody Katers, Alice and David Jordan and Gene and Amy Katers. A true hero to his family and many others, his selfless commitment to service will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A special thank you is extended to the doctors and staff of Atlanta Heart Associates, Dr. Mark Whitmer and the staff of Southeast Medical Group and Dr. Ashar Usmani and his team at Piedmont Physicians Group.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to

Heritage Park Jim Joyce Veterans Museum Memorial https://shorturl.at/WDjFl

Rest in peace and power, Jim.