Bobby Gray Joyner

Bobby Gray Joyner, 88, died Friday, February 4, 2022, at CarePartners Solace following a period of declining health.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Rosa Joyner, 3 brothers and 2 sisters.

Surviving are his wife of 65 years, Ida Christine Joyner; daughters, Janice Panza (Bill) of New Bern, Nancy Joyner of Weaverville, and Rachel Burnette (Ben) of Marshall and son, Robert Joyner (Kody) of Candler; 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

After being raised near Rocky Mount, NC, he lived in Candler for over 60 years. He was a retired Air Force veteran and was cared for by the VA for many years. He was a welder at Asheville Steel for 20 years. He was a builder of many projects including building his house, garage, and several sheds. He also built a waterwheel, 3 windmills, 2 cannons and was an expert lawn mower repairman.

He loved vacations, especially the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone which he visited several times but always longed to go home.

He was a charter member of Candler Church (the former Candler House of Prayer).

Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Candler Church with private burial at the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery later.

The family will receive friends at the church from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Tuesday prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, gifts of remembrance may be made to the Candler Church.