It is with deep sadness and profound gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Joyce Fay Sharpe Ward on June 6, 2026 at the age of 87.
Joyce was a remarkable woman whose life was defined by love, faith, and unwavering devotion to her family. Family was always at the center of her life. She dedicated herself to being a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt and best friend while at the same time, she forged an impressive career with AT&T, Bell Atlantic, and Verizon. She earned the respect of colleagues and friends through her professionalism, determination, and leadership. She demonstrated that it was possible to excel both as a devoted mother and as a successful professional, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Joyce was born and raised in Burlington, North Carolina. Her successful career led her to the Washington DC area and in retirement the love she and her husband shared of the coast, boating, and beach life drew them to Topsail Island, North Carolina where they enjoyed the beauty and tranquility of seaside living. After the loss of her husband, she found comfort and joy in Surfside Beach, South Carolina, spending cherished days with her sister Bonnie Ballak, sharing laughter, friendship, and countless memories.
Joyce spent the last two years living in Enterprise, Alabama alongside her sister, Betty Tyler. Together they shared countless joyful moments filled with laughter, Garden Club activities, frequent lunches and day trips that created cherished memories. In October 2025, Joyce moved to St. Petersburg, Florida to live with her daughter, Teresa, where she spent her remaining months surrounded by the love and care of family. Those precious days together became a gift that both mother and daughter would forever treasure.
She is survived by her loving children, Timothy Edward Ward and Teresa Fay Ward. Her grandchildren, Bailee Madison Ward and Lily Peyton Ward. Her Sisters, Betty Tyler, Bonnie Ballak and Pattie Bayliff. Her nieces, Cindy O’Donnell, Sherry Boutwell, Rhonda Williams, Pamela Hadley, Brandy Michael and Kristin Eagle as well as many great nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe Lee Sharpe and Mary Alice Sharpe, her husband of 51 years, Jimmy Edward Ward, and her sister Jorena Shoffner. While our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort in knowing that her legacy lives on in the values she instilled, the traditions she created, and the love she shared so freely. We are reminded of the greatness of a woman whose impact on her family will never fade.
May peace be with her as she is embraced in God’s loving arms. Though she is no longer with us in person, her spirit will remain in our hearts forever, guiding us with the same love and grace she showed throughout her life.
