Joyce (McLemore) Johnson Bass McLawhorn

The earth lost a wonderful soul when Joyce J. McLawhorn, 85, of Newton Grove, passed away. She transitioned peacefully at UNC Hospital in Hillsborough on September 30, 2021, after a courageous journey with Alzheimer’s disease. She was born in Elevation Township in Johnston County on February 27, 1936 to the late Elbert P. and Vera B. Johnson.

Joyce wore many hats during her long life. She was a farmer’s wife, singer, beautician, artist, child carer, and musician. She played the piano, accordion and banjo. Joyce was the best mother, sister, aunt, Granny and Great Granny. She loved life and was quite the prankster. She kept her sense of humor until the end. Of all her accomplishments, she will be most remembered for her heart full of love, everyone was welcome at her table.

Joyce will be dearly missed by her daughter Sandi Brown; grandchildren Amos (Chelsea) Brown, Jeremi (Chris) B. Clark; great grandchildren Asher, Ansley, Silas and Hayden; brother Thomas Johnson, Sister in Law Helen Johnson, Sister in Law Brenda Johnson, and Glenda and Eugene Worley as well as numerous extended family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Joyce was predeceased by her siblings; Dennis Johnson, Marjorie Balance, Keith Johnson, Danny Johnson and Gayle J. May.

A celebration of Joyce’s life will be held on Wednesday, October 6 at 11:00 AM at Oak Grove Free Will Baptist Church, 3311 Newton Grove Highway, Newton Grove, NC. Visitation will be at the church at 10:00 AM (Family will not be in attendance for Visitation). Interment will follow the services at Warren-Oak Grove Cemetery.

Memorial Donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, Il 60601; Oak Grove Free Will Baptist Church, or to the charity of one’s choice.

In accordance with current North Carolina COVID-19 guidelines, the funeral home requests that everyone in attendance practice social distancing and wear a face covering.