Joyce Ann Fillmore

Joyce Ann Fillmore, 78, of Wise, Virginia, passed away Saturday, September 12, 2026, after facing many health challenges throughout the years. If you knew Joyce, you know she faced them the same way she faced most things in life—on her own terms. Joyce was truly one of a kind. She was bold, outspoken, stubborn, funny, fiercely independent, and never afraid to say exactly what was on her mind. She didn't have much of a filter—except for the ones on her cigarettes—and Joyce was always un-apologetically herself. Joyce may have been a wild spirit, but she had a heart for people and family—and underneath all that stubbornness was a whole lot of kindness. When needed, she cared for her mother, helped care for children in the family, and was “Nanny” to her grandson Cody, whom she loved dearly. For many years, Joyce worked at a sewing factory and was a talented seamstress who enjoyed making things for others, especially Halloween costumes. She loved Gunsmoke, her soap operas, listening to church on television, Christmas, and making people laugh. Joyce's health may have slowed her body down, but it never tamed her spirit. For a woman allergic to cats, she seemed to have nine lives herself—and she used every one of them. She loved the Lord and wasn't afraid of what came next. Joyce left her family a message in a Bible that read: “When I die, don't be sad, be glad. I will be with Mom and Dad. Love, Joyce.” So while her family will miss her dearly, they will also honor Joyce the way she would have wanted—with plenty of stories, plenty of laughter, and gratitude for 78 years with a woman who was completely and unmistakably herself. After years when her body couldn't do the things she once loved, we like to think she's whole again, reunited with those who went before her, and already cutting a rug through the gates of Heaven. Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Helen Fillmore, and her only son, Terry Edward Fillmore. She is survived by brothers Jack Fillmore (Carol), Roger Fillmore (Marianna), Jimmy Fillmore (Susie); sisters Karen Fuson (Danny), Sharon Kilgore (Andrew); grandson Cody Fillmore; and many nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, extended family members, and friends. The family would like to extend a special thanks to the MEOC PACE program for the many years of care and service provided to Joyce. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Roy A. Green Funeral Home. A Funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Nick Brewer officiating. Procession will follow to American Legion Cemetery for the committal. Joyce was rough around the edges, tender at heart, wild in spirit, and completely unforgettable. There will never be another Joyce—and that's probably just how she wanted it.

Joyce Ann Fillmore

June 23, 1948 - September 12, 2026