Mary Joyce Parker

Mary Joyce Parker, age 96, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2026, at Oakland Living Center in Rutherfordton, NC. Born on December 25, 1929, in Philadelphia, PA, Mary’s remarkable life spanned nearly a century marked by love, commitment, and enduring faith in her family.

Throughout her long and meaningful life, Joyce was known for her unwavering devotion to those she loved. She was a cherished daughter of Edwin Boatrite and Mary Henderson Boatrite, whose memory she honored throughout her years, and the beloved wife of 70 years to the late Hampton Arthur Parker. Together, they built a legacy of love and resilience that has touched the hearts of all who knew them. Joyce was also preceded in death by her grandson, Joshua Huggins and a brother, James Boatrite.

Joyce’s pride and greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her son, Ed Parker and wife Sue of Casar, NC, daughters, Beth Max and husband Robert of Casar, NC, and Lisa Baxter and husband Tommy of Cherryville, NC, each of whom has carried her kindness and strength forward into the world. Though her daughter Margaret Huggins preceded her in death, Joyce’s memory lives on in the countless lives she nurtured and inspired.

A true matriarch, Joyce’s influence continues through her extended family. She leaves behind 13 grandchildren who were each a source of immense pride; 22 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren, each a testament to the enduring bonds she cultivated across generations. Joyce’s home was always filled with warmth and laughter, a gathering place where stories and traditions flourished. Her gentle wisdom and steadfast support provided comfort and guidance to her family in times of both joy and sorrow.

Joyce’s life will be honored with a graveside service on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Pisgah Baptist Church Cemetery in Casar, NC conducted by Rev. Keith Stephenson and Rev. Glenn Kerstetter. Friends and family are invited to gather and pay their respects, honoring the life of a truly exceptional woman whose impact will resonate for years to come.

Her legacy is one of compassion, strength, and unwavering familial love. Joyce Parker’s memory will be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing her, and her spirit will remain a source of inspiration for generations.