Joyce Barker Bell, beloved wife, Mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on November 27, 2018, at the Gordon Hospice House surrounded by her family. Born September 15, 1931, in Statesville, NC, Joyce was the daughter of the late Cecil Carter Barker and Leila Billings Barker. Joyce married the love of her life, LP Bell, Jr., who survives. LP was always affectionately called “Bell” by Joyce. They were married for over 69 years and together were blessed with four children: Annette Bell Roberts and husband, Hap; Lucius Perry Bell III, who predeceased his Mother, and Perry’s wife, Darlene; Brenda Bell Fairbetter and husband, Paul; Burt Alan Bell and wife, Nina. Also surviving are nine grandchildren: Heather Roberts Brady and husband Brad; Spencer Fairbetter and wife, Amber; William Fairbetter and wife, Amber; Megan Bell Smith and husband, Bryan; Bethany Bell Clifton and husband, Jeremy; Madison Bell Hilton and husband, Alan; Perry Bell, IV and wife, Carmen; Holly Bell Benson and husband, Justin and Jessy Bell, and nine great-grandchildren: Bell Brady, Graham Brady, Brooklinn Smith, Warren Smith, Lillian Fairbetter, Bennett Fairbetter, Shilas Fairbetter, Ashlyn Fairbetter, and Woodrow Clifton, and two sisters: Jean Barker Foster, Hazel Barker McClelland and a brother, Joe Carter Barker. A second brother, Don Allen Barker, predeceased Joyce. Joyce is also survived by many special nieces and nephews. Joyce graduated from Statesville High School and Mitchell College. She was co-owner of the family Dairy business until it was sold. Joyce also worked as a Real Estate Agent for Hunter/Coldwell Realty for twenty-five years, retiring in 2010. Joyce was dedicated to Church and to Community. For almost 60 years, she was a faithful member of Oakdale Baptist Church where she served as a Sunday School teacher, Circle member and leader, and President of the Women’s Missionary Union. Joyce was also involved for 60 years with another special love – the Oakdale Women’s Club, where she made many good friends and held offices, including Club President. Joyce enjoyed her special weekly gatherings with close friends in both the Wild Goose Quilting Club and her card groups. She enjoyed gardening, traveling and reading. However, her happiest moments were those spent with Bell and her family. She was a devoted wife, Mother and Grandmother. Joyce was never too busy to write a loving note, make a caring call or have family in for special occasions. She taught her Grandchildren how to paint, how to sew stuffed animals, and most importantly, she always reminded every family member of the great importance of Church and prayer. Joyce’s indelible footprint will keep her forever close in the hearts and memories of all who were blessed to know and love her. The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the wonderful staff at the Gordon Hospice House. Dr. John Gazak, Karen Luther, the Nurses and Staff are greatly appreciated for their loving care to Joyce and for the many kindnesses shown to her and to her family. Funeral services will be held at Oakdale Baptist Church on Friday, November 30, 2018, at 2:30 P.M. with the Rev. Matthew Eades officiating. The family will greet friends in the fellowship hall prior to the service from 1:00 to 2:30 P.M. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be made to: Oakdale Baptist Church, 585 Mocksville Highway, Statesville, NC 28625, or to: Gordon Hospice House of Iredell County, 2341 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.nicholsonfunerals.com. Nicholson Funeral is serving the Bell family. Donations may be made to: Oakdale Baptist Church 585 Mocksville Rd., Statesville NC 28625 Gordon Hospice House 2341 Simonton Rd., Statesville NC 28625
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Joyce Barker Bell September 15 1931 November 27 2018 (age 87).
Death notice for the town of: Statesville, state: North Carolina