Shirley Smith Joyner

Shirley Smith Joyner, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on November 9, 2025, at the age of 91. Shirley was born in Johnston County on November 1, 1934, to the late Pinkney Thurman Smith and Bertha Elizabeth Hamilton Smith. Shirley lived a life marked by faith, compassion, and service. A devoted follower of Jesus, she shared His love with everyone she met through her kindness, generosity, and steadfast spirit.

A celebration of Shirley’s life will be held at 3 o’clock on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Richland Creek Community Church, 3229 Burlington Mills Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587. Friends may visit with the family prior to the service, starting at 2 o’clock.

Mrs. Joyner is predeceased by her son, William Clifford Joyner, Jr. and survived by her beloved husband of 69 years, W. Clifford Joyner, Sr.; children, Stanley Lane Joyner & wife Joan of Denver, NC; Samuel Harold Joyner & wife Lynn of Wake Forest; and daughter-in-law, Jill Joyner of Weddington, NC. She was also the proud grandmother of Michael Joyner and wife Brittany of Iron Station, NC, Cameron Joyner of Raleigh, Emilie Vertz and husband Ben of Jacksonville, FL, Rachel Beaton and husband Garrett of Wake Forest, William Joyner and wife Abbey of Seattle, WA, Lane Joyner and wife Savannah of Cary. She was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren - Braeden, Brooklyn, Sadie, Bailey, Parker, Everlee, Cliff III, Samuel and Claire, and the family is looking forward to welcoming another soon. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation for the loving care provided by her devoted caregiver, Trina, over the past six years. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Richland Creek Community Church (RCCC), 3229 Burlington Mills Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587, or online at www.richlandcreek.com/give.

Arrangements by Clancy Strickland Wheeler Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1051 Durham Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587. (919-556-7400)

www.cswfuneralhome.com