Franklin – Lawrence Vernon Christian Joyner, Sr., better known as Tap, took sweet release of his earthly shell on Wednesday, January 4, 2012 and is now at home with his Heavenly Father.

Left to love him still are his wife of 39 ½ years, Jane T. Joyner, sons, Paul Thomas Joyner, L.V. Chris Joyner, Jr. and Bryan Lane Joyner; grandchildren, Kristen Nicole, Emily Grace, Peyton Lane, Memphis Cassidy, L.V. Christian, III and Luci Nichole Joyner, 3 step grandsons, Travis, Alex and Trae Lindsey and 4 step great grandchildren. Tap is also survived by 3 brothers, Bruce, Walter and Michael and one sister, Elaine, numerous much loved nieces and nephews and more friends than can be counted.

Tap’s celebration of life and service of resurrection will be held at his church home, Grace Memorial UMC, Peachtree Ave in Sedley at 11 am Saturday, January 7, 2012. Burial will follow at Rosemont Cemetery after which the family will receive friends at the fellowship hall back at the church for a time of fellowship and memories. Wear bright colors. Memorials can be made to Bags of Grace, c/o Grace Memorial UMC, P.O. Box 73, Sedley, VA or American Cancer Society, Relay 4 Life, Team Sojourners, c/o Linda T. Drake, 33103 Cypress Swamp Rd., Newsomes, VA 23874. www.wrightfuneralhome.org.