Joyce Lawson of Eagle Rock completed her earthly journey and entered into eternal rest on July 7, 2021.
She was the beloved daughter of the late Roy and Mearl (Hill) Newcomb. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a special aunt and uncle, Woody and Pearl Newcomb, Woody being Roy’s brother and Pearl being Mearl’s twin sister; a double first cousin, Wilbur Newcomb, and other much loved cousins, aunts, and uncles.
Joyce was born on April 18, 1944 in the Salt Petre Cave area of Eagle Rock and spent her childhood there. From an early age and throughout her adult life she attended and served actively in Mt. Carmel Church. Her love for the Lord, her family, and her friends was evidenced in the way she lived, loving and serving others. Where there was a need, Joyce was there. She attended school in Eagle Rock and graduated from James River High School in 1962. Soon after graduation she entered the work force. Her work ethic, combined with a bubbly personality and positive interaction with others, brought her success. She retired from Lee’s Carpet Company in a supervisory position in 2011. A loving wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and neighbor, Joyce lived life to its fullest. She enjoyed church gatherings, family gatherings, outings with friends, cooking for hunters, spending time with friends on North Mountain, and especially “snow birding” in Florida, making new friends wherever she went.
Those left to cherish her memory are her beloved husband of 57 years, Johnny Lawson; her son and daughter-in-law, Johnny, Jr. and Rhonda Lawson; a double first cousin, Phyllis Alexander and Virginia Newcomb and their families; many other much-loved cousins, nieces, and nephews; grandchildren, Michael Justin and James Gordon Suthers; six great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, “Powder” Lawson and wife, Emma; sister-in laws, Betty Butler and Janet Lawson; the Ronk Family including Krista, Michelle, and Sarah; and scores of friends.
Family and friends will join to celebrate the life of Joyce in a Memorial Service on Saturday, July 17 at 3 p.m. at Mt. Carmel Church. In Joyce’s memory, donations may be made to Mt. Carmel Church, Eagle Rock, Va. 24085 or Eagle Rock Rescue Squad, Eagle Rock, Va. 24085. Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfuneralhome.com.
