MARS HILL – Joyce C. Fletcher, 71, has finally gone to rejoin her husband, Dana, who was the love of her life, Friday, Nov. 20, 2009. She was born March 24, 1938, in Presque Isle, the daughter of Eldon and Abbie (Brooks) Bates. In earlier years Joyce worked as a telephone operator and later on worked many years for H. Smith Packing. Joyce loved to sew and was a member of Red Hat Society, Ladies Auxiliary American Legion William Cousins Post No. 118 and was a member of Full Gospel Assembly, Mars Hill. Her family was the most important thing in her life and she spent countless hours camping, visiting and always enjoying the company of each and every one. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart and she will be sadly missed by them. She is survived by two children: a daughter, Bonnie and her husband, Charles Gordon, of Mars Hill, and a son, Steve and his wife, Jennifer Fletcher, of Blaine; eight grandchildren, April, Jon, Abbie, Taylor, Page, Tucker, Emma and Ira; five great-grandchildren, Autumn, Dana, Camille, Ashlynn and Andrea; a special sister, Christine “Tiny” Gilmore of Presque Isle; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Dana, with whom she shared 40 wonderful years of marriage until his passing Aug. 8, 1999; and three brothers, Ronald, Earl and Wellie Bates. Funeral services will be conducted 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 23, at Full Gospel Assembly Church, Mars Hill, with the Rev. Richard Bell officiating. Friends may call noon until the time of service. Interment will take place after the service at King’s Grove Cemetery, Mars Hill. There will be a reception in the church fellowship hall after the committal. Arrangements in care of Duncan Funeral Home, 8 Main St., Mars Hill. Condolences may be expressed at www.duncan-graves.com.
JOYCE C. FLETCHER
