James Joyner

James Keith Joyner, 57, of Zebulon, died Saturday, July 8th after a 6 year battle with cancer. James fought his disease with every ounce of determination he had, plus some. He often surprised his healthcare team with his determination, positive attitude and his will to live his life on his terms. He was exceptional in his love for those around him. He loved unconditionally. And, those that knew him could not help but love him back. People, children and animals of all sorts were drawn to him because his love was so magnetic. He will be missed by family, friends and colleagues.

A service to celebrate his life will be on Saturday, July 22, 2023, 3:00 PM, at Wilson Memorial Service in Wilson, followed by visitation.

James spent the majority of his career in the pharmaceutical industry. He worked with Abbott Laboratories and Hospira in Rocky Mount, Glaxo Smith Kline in Memphis, Tennessee, Sandoz in Wilson and Merck Pharmaceuticals in Durham where he assisted in starting up a new facility preparing it for the production of vaccines. He had a passion for doing things the right way the first time and keeping things in order and running smoothly. His only irritation in his career was audits by the Food and Drug Administration.

He is survived by his wife, Angelic (Angel); daughters, Jamie (Matthew) of Greenville, Raven (Austin) of Pinetops, Jessica of Zebulon; sons, Dylan of Raleigh, Joshua (Kinsey) of Winston Salem and Andrew of Zebulon; granddaughter Aislinn Ruth; sisters, Sharri of Wilson and Jennifer of Nashville; father, James C. Joyner of Rocky Mount; multiple nieces and nephews from around the world and lifelong friend Sherry of Knightdale.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Fannie Jean Brantley.

In lieu of flowers, James would prefer donations be made to UNC Health Foundation designated for the UNC Rex Cancer Center, 2901 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC 27607 where he received excellent care for 6 years. https://give.unc.edu/hfdonate?p=rexh&s=MEDFOT23T9DU39/

Arrangements by Wilson Memorial Service, 2811 Fieldstream Drive N, Wilson, NC 27896 252-237-7171; www.wilsonmemorialservice.com