NEWSOMS—Michael Elliott Joyner, 56, passed away on Oct. 8, 2014, after a six-month fight with esophageal cancer.

He is now home and resting with Jesus and with loved ones who have gone before him, such as his parents, Lawrence and Vera Presson Joyner; his sister, June Forrest; and his brother, Tap Joyner.

Mike was born in Franklin, and had been a truck driver with Crowder and White before his illness.

He loved hunting, anything outdoors, his home, his yard, and especially his garage that he personally built. But his greatest love were his daughters, grandchildren, family, and especially the love of his life, his “Big Girl,” Joyce Early Joyner, who would have celebrated their 40th anniversary on Oct. 9.

Other survivors include two daughters, Amy Jo “Angel” Joyner of Greensboro, North Carolina, and Denise Lynn “Pooh Bear” Joyner (Bruce “Cuz”) of Cumberland, Virginia; one sister, Elaine White (Hunter) of Colonial Heights, Virginia; two brothers, Bruce Joyner (Debbie) of Hepzibah, Georgia, and Walter Joyner (Suzanne) of Virginia Beach; three grandchildren, Devan George Schwartz, Gabriel Dale Schwartz and Brooklyn Elliott “Boo Monster” Schwartz; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

There will be a gathering of family and friends on Sunday, Oct. 12, from 2 to 5 p.m. at “The Promise Land” in Mike’s garage.

The family suggests memorials be made to The Massey Cancer Center, 1000 East Clay St., Richmond, VA 23298, or Feed The Children, P.O. Box 36, Oklahoma City, OK 73101.

Wright Funeral Home is assisting the family.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org.