Joyce Whitley Steele

Mrs. Joyce Whitley Steele, 84, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 25, 2024, in Charlotte, North Carolina, surrounded by her loving children. Born on August 13, 1939, Joyce lived most of her life in Stanly County, North Carolina. She is survived by her three children: son Joe B. Huneycutt (wife, Sherri Huneycutt) of Charlotte, NC; daughter Amy Steele Sherrell (husband, Rob Sherrell) of Atlanta, GA; and daughter Lisa Ann Steele of Atlanta, GA. She is also survived by three sisters, Ellene Smith, Lynette Goodman, and Jean Lyon; and two brothers, Terrell and Danny Whitley. Joyce will be greatly missed by her family, including her three grandchildren: Dr. Savannah Huneycutt (husband, Daniel Veizaga) of Charlotte, NC; Addison Leigh Huneycutt of New York City, NY; and Robert Steele Sherrell of Atlanta, GA. Her children and grandchildren were the light of her life, and she was immensely proud of all of their accomplishments. She cherished every moment spent with all of them. She was preceded in death by her parents, Pauline Perry Whitely and Elton D. Whitley; her first husband, Josephus Bryant Huneycutt; her second husband, Thomas Franklin Steele; and her brothers, Reggie, Ralph, and Durant Whitley. Joyce was a dedicated lifelong learner who pursued an extensive educational journey. She graduated with a bachelor's degree from Pfeiffer University and furthered her expertise by earning both a master's degree in Reading Education and an Advanced Specialist Degree in Educational Administration and Supervision from Appalachian State University. Committed to education, she continued her academic pursuits towards a Doctoral degree from both the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and Nova Southeastern University until health-related issues prevented her from completing her doctoral studies. Joyce's educational accomplishments reflect her dedication to her profession and her commitment to improving the field of education. Joyce was a beloved wife, mother, educator, and community leader. She dedicated her life to her family and to shaping the lives of countless students as an esteemed teacher and principal. With a passion for education, she was a forward-thinking leader, pioneering innovative educational and athletic programs that left a lasting impact. Joyce's legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched and the programs she established, fostering a spirit of learning, growth, and community. A devoted member of the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church community, Joyce's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was an active participant in church activities from childhood and throughout her adult life. She will be remembered for her compassionate heart, visionary leadership, and profound impact on both her family and her community. The family expresses their sincerest gratitude to the staff and team at The Sanctuary – Glenridge Senior Healthcare. The unparalleled care and love provided by the dedicated professionals there brought comfort and peace to Joyce in her final days, for which her family will be forever thankful. Her funeral service will be held graveside at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in the form of a donation to VIA Health Partners, PO Box 470408, Charlotte NC 28247 | 704.335.3557 | giving@viahp.org.

Joyce Whitley Steele

August 13, 1939 - July 25, 2024