Obituary of Joseph Joyner

Joseph Lucky Joyner, Jr., age 80, died March 5, 2012 at Manor Care in Wheaton, MD, after a long illness. He was born January 14, 1932 in Washington, DC to the late Joseph L. Joyner and Corine Givens Joyner. He resided in the DC area all of his life. Joe attended DC Public schools, after which he volunteered for the US Army in March 1951. He was wounded in combat in September 1951. After a period of recovery, he continued to serve until the completion of his tour on December 12, 1954 when he was honorably discharged with the Purple Heart. Joe was employed by the US Department of Army, Harry Diamond Laboratories, in Adelphi, MD and retired after 30 years. In 1968, he married the former Bettye Freeman and embraced two children from her former marriage, who affectionately called him "Big Joe." They were blessed with two sons. In 1974, Joe joined the New Covenant Baptist Church, Washington, DC and was baptized. He was the Financial Secretary for several years. The sameyear, he also became a sales representative for Coppercraft Guild, Inc, a home party products company, to assist his wife in her efforts to earn a trip to Rome, Italy. They succeeded, and in June 1974, they traveled to Rome, visited the Vatican, the Statue of David and other notable sites. Joe loved music of all genres. He attended many concerts of his favorite artists, such as Earl Grant, Organist Jimmy Smith and R&B Artists. He took pride in teaching younger men how to shoot pool. He enjoyed life to the fullest. He is well remembered for his witty quotes that he repeated often. He is survived by three sons, Joseph C. (Pamela) Joyner, Denver, CO; Jerrold L. Joyner, Sr., Temple Hills, MD; George D. Freeman, Manassas, VA; A daughter, Wenda Freeman Wright, Durham, NC; his former wife and friend, Bettye Joyner, Goldsboro, NC; One sister, Elaine Price, Largo, MD; Six granddaughters, three grandsons, one great grandson, several nieces and nephews, friends and neighbors. His remains will rest at Arlington National Cemetery Columbarium, Arlington, VA. A graveside Memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 8, 2012 at 2:00 pm.