George Isaac Joyner

December 24, 1938 – September 27, 2026

George Isaac Joyner, 87, of Goldsboro, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 27, 2026, surrounded by his loving family at Kitty Askins Hospice Center.

Born on Christmas Eve in 1938 to the late Roy and Lizzie Jackson Joyner, George lived a life defined by faith, hard work, laughter, and, above all, an extraordinary love for his family.

George proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1957 to 1963. Following his military service, he worked in dairy delivery before becoming the proud owner of Joyner’s Exxon, where he spent many years serving his community until his retirement. His strong work ethic was matched only by his remarkable ability to build, fix, or figure out just about anything. Whether he was tinkering with something, tending to his garden, or tackling one of his never-ending projects, George was happiest when he had something to keep his hands busy.

A man of deep faith, George was a devoted member of Black Jack Grove Free Will Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a deacon and in numerous other capacities. His love for the Lord was reflected in the way he lived his life and treated those around him.

Of all the things George accomplished, nothing brought him greater joy than his family. He shared 65 beautiful years of marriage with the love of his life, Phyllis, whom he absolutely adored. Their marriage was a testament to a lifetime of love and devotion. George was immensely proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and he made certain they knew just how much they were loved. He wasn’t simply a grandfather; he was a constant presence in their lives, always ready with a hug, a laugh, a helping hand, or a little mischief.

George had a special gift for making everyone around him feel loved. Never one to pass up an opportunity to cut up or tell a joke, he could bring a smile to just about anyone’s face. Many will forever hear his familiar greeting, “Hello, Darling,” and remember his legendary hugs, often accompanied by the words, “Hold me tight. Don’t let me go.” Those fortunate enough to receive one of those hugs knew they would carry the unmistakable scent of his Paul Sebastian cologne with them for hours afterward.

It was the little things that made George so unforgettable: his playful spirit, his ability to make something out of nothing, his love of gardening, his appreciation for a good home-cooked meal prepared by Phyllis, and the genuine happiness he found simply being surrounded by the people he loved.

George leaves behind his beloved wife of 65 years, Phyllis Toole Joyner; his son, Royce Eugene Joyner and wife, Rosemary Nunn Joyner, of Goldsboro; and his daughter, Cynthia Joyner Powell of Selma.

He was the proud “Papa” of Andrew Bryce Joyner of Charlotte; Christopher Ryan Powell and wife, Heather, of Four Oaks; and Christina Powell Kemp and husband, Ashley, of Middlesex. His legacy of love continues through his four cherished great-grandchildren, Calla Rae Powell, Paisley Grace Kemp, Camellia Rayne Powell, and William Michael Kemp.

He is also survived by his sister, Mary Lou Raynor of Fayetteville; his brother, Roy “Eugene” Joyner of Newton Grove; and several beloved nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Black Jack Grove Free Will Baptist Church. A memorial service celebrating George’s life will follow at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Black Jack Grove F.W.B Church in his memory.

Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Joyner family. 

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