Joyce Plyler Way

Joyce Plyler Way, 93, of Charlotte, North Carolina died February 28, 2024. She was born June 5, 1930, to the late Samuel Stacy and Josephine Wentz Plyler. Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Carl “Patchy” H. Way, Jr. They were married on June 8, 1951, and enjoyed 55 years of marriage.

Joyce was employed with Dr. Robert L. Ward optometric center as an optometric assistant for over 30 years. Her kindness and care showed in her daily work with her patients.

Joyce is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Terri Hefner, grandchildren, Amy Chandler (Buddy), Tate Way (Jennifer) and Carlie Smith. She also had seven great-grandchildren. Her brother David Plyler (Marie) and sisters, Dianne Larrimore (Odell) and Jan Fincher will also cherish her memory. In addition to her parents and husband she was preceded in death by her son, Carl David Way, her brother, Steve Plyler, and her sister, Stacie Garrison.

Joyce was a longtime member of Derita Presbyterian Church. She enjoyed singing in the choir, being a part of the Sunshine Club, the women’s circle and helping with Loaves and Fishes.

She loved to read, walk, and shop, especially for clothes and antiques. Joyce also found great joy in the many trips she and her sister, Dianne took with Christian Tours over the years.

Throughout her life, Joyce was known for her outgoing personality, and her special way of connecting with others. She would go above and beyond to help those in need and touched many lives with her kindness and generosity.

During the last few years of “Mama’s” dementia journey, there were certainly many challenges and struggles, but through it all she was kind, and her love for others did not change. Blythe and Maddie Joy Chandler helped keep her spirits up with their laughter, silliness, singing, dancing, and loving on her. This atmosphere of humor and joy helped us all through her dementia. As Mama would say, “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

Memorial services to celebrate her life will be held at Derita Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at 11am. The family will receive friends following the service at the church. Memorials may be made to Derita Presbyterian Church, 2230 W. Sugar Creek Rd, Charlotte, NC 28262.