Miriam "Joyce" Hooper Minor

Miriam “Joyce” Hooper Minor, 88, passed away at her residence on July 8, 2024. She was born on July 19, 1935, in the Ashland Community in Franklin County, Georgia, to the late William Alvin and Eva Vickery Hooper. In her younger years, she lived throughout the south before moving to Athens, Georgia in 1974. She was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her siblings, Mary S. Payne, Nelda S. Taylor, William V. Sears, and Alvin L. Hooper. She is survived by her sister, Linda H. Pryor of Savannah; daughters, Pam Butts (Bruce) of Athens, Debra Millwood of Athens; nephews, John Pryor (Victoria), Wesley Hooper, Donnie Payne (Sharon); niece, Kim Brown (Jeff); grandchildren Chris Butts (Trina) of Bishop and Jason Butts of Morgantown, W.V., and beloved great-grandchildren, and other extended family.

Devoted to her family, Joyce was ever diligent and never missed sending a personalized card for a birthday or special occasion. She enjoyed gardening and genealogy but took the greatest pleasure from visiting with friends and relatives. Professionally, Joyce served for many years as an administrative assistant and was recognized on numerous occasions for her dedication and careful attention to detail. In later years, she was a keen scrabble player who did not miss the chance to see her beloved Atlanta Braves on TV. Her flock all looked forward to receiving the special treat of a homemade pound cake or her famous chocolate drop cookies.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 13th at 12:00 noon at Lord and Stephens West, 1211 Jimmy Daniel Road. A funeral service will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel. Afterwards, Joyce will be laid to rest at Athens Memory Gardens. The Chapel service may be viewed at Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes Facebook page. 

Go to www.lordandstephens.com to sign the online registry for the family. The family would like to express our sincere appreciation to the staff at Arbor Terrace and Agape Hospice for their loving care.