Bennie Lee Joyner Jr.

Bennie Lee Joyner, Jr., 71 years old, of Nashville passed away on September 17, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. Born November 5,1953, in Nash County to Bennie Lee and Estelle Joyner, Bennie was the youngest of 15 brothers and sisters. The large family was always full of love and unwavering support for each other. Born on a farm in rural Nash County Bennie learned at a very early age the value of hard work, dedication to your job and performing any task to the best of your ability. Bennie married the love of his life and devoted companion, Kelle House. Most recently, they celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary. The birth of their son, Dustin, was a blessing to their marriage, and they are so proud of him. Bennie and Dustin enjoyed fishing, hunting and spending time together on various projects. Bennie loved traveling with Kelle, playing pool with friends, Bluegrass music, watching Westerns and an occasional drive around Nash and surrounding counties. Their family grew with the marriage of Dustin to his wife, Mallory Bass. The addition of precious grandchildren Avery and Asher brought “Papa Ben” and “Gigi”, as they are affectionately known by them, much love, joy, and wonderful times together. Bennie leaves a legacy for the many lives he touched in countless ways. As a member of Nashville Baptist Church, he served as a Deacon and on several committees. Bennie was a long-time member of Oak Level Ruritan Club and was committed to the Nashville community and helping others. He also enjoyed many evenings attending the “Governor’s Club” which was a group of individuals who gathered to discuss the day's events. Bennie retired from Nash Rocky Mount Public Schools after 19 years of dedicated service. Prior to his career with the school system, Bennie developed an interest in carpentry. He was meticulous about his skill and was sought out for the professionalism, quality and expertise of his work. From a new building, to a “man cave”, to a shelter, he approached each project with determination to make every cut, every screw and every nail flawless. Bennie will be missed deeply and remembered always. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife Kelle Joyner, son, Dustin and wife, Mallory Joyner, Granddaughter Avery Joyner, Grandson Asher Joyner and Mother-in-Law Shirley House. In addition, Bennie is survived by sisters Ethel “Doodle” Daniels, Joan Daniels, Helen (Terry) Hayes, and Diane Briggs; brothers Phil Joyner (Gwen Rose) and Harry (Lori) Joyner and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bennie Lee and Estelle Joyner, Father-in-Law Jesse House, sisters Eunice Frazier, Lois Jones, Jane Matthews, Joyce Puckett, and Faye Carter. and brothers J.B. Joyner, Buddy Joyner, and Bob Joyner. The family would like to extend their appreciation to Dr. Neeraj Agrawal with Duke Raleigh Health, Dr. Perkins of Hospice of Wilson and Nurses Jessica and Blair, as well as other staff behind the scene for their compassionate care of Bennie. In addition the Joyner Family deeply appreciates the many visits and acts of love and kindness by family and friends. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at Cornerstone Funeral Home with Rev. Kenny Byrd and Eddie Thomas officiating. Visitation will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Bennie’s memory may be made to Nashville Baptist Church 512 E Washington Street Nashville, NC 27856.

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Bennie Lee Joyner Jr.

November 5, 1953 - September 17, 2025