Joyce Marlene Peters Parry

Hendersonville, NC – Joyce Marlene Peters Parry, born on February 5, 1944, in Ironton, Ohio, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025, in Flat Rock, North Carolina. She had moved to Flat Rock in 2024 to be closer to family after living on St. Simon’s Island for 30 years. Prior to St. Simon’s, she had lived in Atlanta, Georgia most of her life after having spent her earliest years in Kentucky. She always considered Kentucky to be her ‘home’. She was 81-years-old.

Joyce was the beloved only child of Andrew and Ruth Peters. She was raised in Atlanta, Georgia, deeply rooted in faith as the child of a Methodist minister. Her spiritual foundation remained central throughout her life. A devoted Christian, Joyce found strength and purpose in her faith. She worshipped at both St. Simon’s Island United Methodist Church and First Baptist Church in Brunswick, Georgia over the years, forming lasting connections within those communities.

In 1963, Joyce graduated from Massey Business College in Atlanta, Georgia. Her education laid the groundwork for a life marked by dedication and resilience. She found a lifelong friend there when she met Patsy Pryor, who was a key support of Joyce all her life and especially the few last years.

Joyce shared her life with her late husband, Louis Parry. She was previously married to Richard Bryan. Her family brought her immense joy and pride. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Michele Bryan and step-daughter Tiffany Parry Kelly. Joyce’s legacy continues through her grandchildren: Cassidy Murphy, Kate Murphy, Will Kelly, Aidan Kelly, and Charlie Kelly.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Louis Parry; her ex-husband Richard Bryan; three cherished aunts (Myrtle Clay, Anna Marie Jackson, and Wilma Jean Clay); and a pack of sweet furry companions (Sugar, Spice, Megan, and Candy), whose presence enriched her life.

Joyce had a vibrant personality that shone through in everything she did. A devoted Elvis fan, she found joy in his music throughout her life. She was also an avid University of Georgia fan which made for many lively times watching games together with her daughter, an avid Georgia Tech fan. Her love for photography allowed her to capture moments both big and small—preserving memories that now serve as treasured keepsakes for those who knew her. Her photography also garnered awards at local art shows.

Her unwavering faith, love for family, and joyful, giving spirit will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her. May her memory bring comfort to those who mourn her passing and inspiration to those who carry forward the values she held dear.

A Memorial Service will be held in St. Simon’s Island, Georgia in February 2026. Details will be shared in January. Arrangements have been handled by Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian in Arden, NC.