William Larry Joyce

William Larry Joyce, affectionately known as Larry, passed away on September 17, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Larry was born on November 21, 1947, in Dalton, GA to W.L. and Mavis Joyce. He grew up in the “Eastside" area of Dalton, where he forged lifelong friendships and earned the nickname “Lightning Larry” through his passion for baseball.

A proud graduate of Dalton High School in 1965, Larry pursued a business degree at West Georgia College. It was during his high school years that he began dating his soulmate, Sandra Hackney, whom he married on December 16, 1967. After graduating in 1969, Larry honorably served in the United States Army until 1971, before returning to Dalton to build a life with Sandra. They welcomed two children. Bryce in January 1973, and Jennifer “JJ” in December 1975.

Larry was a storyteller at heart and would often share tales from his childhood with a chuckle as he recounted the many stories of mischief and fun. Known for his articulate nature and unwavering loyalty in business, he provided steady leadership in every role he undertook, all while making those around him laugh with his infectious sense of humor.

As a devoted husband and father, Larry made it a priority to attend every game, dance recital, and school play. He opened his home to Bryce and JJ’s friends, often counting sleeping heads in the mornings to know how many biscuits he needed to get for breakfast.  His nickname, “Turkey Larry", (coined by his oldest niece) was adopted by all of Bryce and JJ’s friends.

Larry's greatest pride was being a Papaw to his three grandsons. He cherished their individual relationships and traveled near and far, braving any weather to support them in their activities. There was no place he would rather be than with his family.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, W.L. and Mavis Joyce; his in-laws, Bill and Louise Hackney; his brother-in-law, Mitchell Hackney; and his beloved son, Bryce Joyce.

He is survived by his loving wife Sandra; daughter JJ Haire, her husband Matt, and their children Eli and Will of Savannah, GA; daughter-in-law Tatum Hackney, honorary son Clint, and grandson Mitchell Joyce of Dalton, GA; brother and sister-in-law Clay and Lisa Hackney of Dalton; nieces Julia Cagle and her husband Mitch and their children Hayden, Leah and Charlie; and Amanda Thomas her husband Charles and their children Chip and Erin. He is also survived by his brother Ronnie Joyce and his wife Pam of Hickory, NC. Larry leaves behind many special friends and co-workers who he cherished deeply.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 19, at Love Funeral Home from 5:30-8:30 PM. A celebration of Larry’s life will take place at Rock Bridge Community Church, Stage 123 on Friday, September 20, at 11:00 AM. Larry will be laid to rest in West Hill Cemetery.

Larry’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Rock Bridge Community Church or to The Green Door Child Advocacy Center.

Rock Bridge Community Church

Green House Child Advocacy Center