Thelma Joyce (Hardin) Royal

Thelma "Joyce" Hardin Royal, 89, passed away Wednesday morning, August 25, 2021, at her home, following a brief illness.

Born July 19, 1932, in Rutherford County, NC, she was a daughter of the late Grady Nathaniel and Eula Lee Baynard Hardin. In addition to her parents, preceding her in death were her beloved husband, Robert Curtis Royal; a brother, Earl Kenneth Hardin; and sisters, Eula Dianne Hardin Tickle and Lennie Lee Haywood.

Joyce was a loving and devoted mother, homemaker, grandmother, sister, great-grandmother and friend to many. She enjoyed shopping, eating out (especially at Hardee's), traveling; all while socializing at each and every opportunity she could.

Family members left with cherished memories include her children, Melody Boyette Reid (Harold), Curtis Dean Royal (Sheri) and Robert Steven Royal (Crystal); her grandchildren, Joy Poole, Britney, Brent, Blake, Brooke and Hope Royal; her sisters, Maxine Haywood and Alice Featherstone; brothers, Henry, Gene and Jerry Hardin; 7 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Graveside services to remember and celebrate Joyce's life will begin at 10:00 am Friday, August 27th, at Brookhill Memorial Gardens in Rockwell, conducted by Dr. Greg Sloop. Due to the ongoing Covid pandemic, there will be no formal visitation.

The family would like to thank Trellis Supportive Care Rowan, for the professional care and concern given to Mrs. Royal and her family.

Memorials may be made to the donor's choice.

Whitley's Funeral Home is serving the Royal family.