Newsoms – Michael Elliott Joyner, 56, passed away October 8, 2014 after a six month fight with esophageal cancer. He is now home and resting with Jesus and with loved ones that have gone before him, such as his parents Lawrence and Vera Presson Joyner, his sister, June Forrest and his brother, Tap Joyner. Mike was born in Franklin and had been a truck driver with Crowder and White before his illness. He loved hunting, anything outdoors, his home, his yard, and especially his garage that he personally built, but his greatest love was his daughters, grandchildren, family and especially the love of his life, his "Big Girl," Joyce Early Joyner, who would have celebrated their 40 anniversary on October 9th.

Other survivors include two daughters, Amy Jo "Angel" Joyner of Greensboro, NC and Denise Lynn "Pooh Bear" Joyner (Bruce "Cuz") of Cumberland, VA; one sister, Elaine White (Hunter) of Colonial Heights, VA; two brothers, Bruce Joyner (Debbie) of Hepzibah, GA and Walter Joyner (Suzanne) of Virginia Beach, VA; three grandchildren, Devan George Schwartz, Gabriel Dale Schwartz and Brooklyn Elliott "Boo Monster" Schwartz and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

There will be a gathering of family and friends Sunday, October 12, 2014 from 2 to 5 PM at "The Promise Land" in Mike's garage. The family suggests memorials be made to The Massey Cancer Center, 1000 East Clay Street, Richmond, VA 23298 or Feed The Children, P. O. Box 36, Oklahoma City, OK 73101. Wright Funeral Home is assisting the family.