Joyce Fay Blanchard Ezzell of Wallace, NC, passed from her earthly life on Thursday, April 27, 2023 while in the Lower Cape Fear Life Care Center in Wilmington, NC.  Born in New Hanover County on July 17, 1942, she is the daughter of the late Henry Graham and Lillie Mae Ezzell Blanchard.  She was also preceded in death by siblings—Ronnie Blanchard, Donnie Blanchard, and Graham Blanchard.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband—Lloyd Ray Ezzell of Wallace; children—Serena Gilbert of Rose Hill and Gregory Alan Ezzell of Harrells; grandchildren—Brandy Gilbert of Murfreesboro (TN), William Gilbert of Rose Hill, and Sheena Burke and husband Jonathan of Kenansville; great grandchildren—Jonathan Gilbert of Rose Hill, Chloe and Hope Burke of Kenansville; sister—Betty Rooks of Burgaw; and brother—Ray Blanchard and wife Beverly of Newport News (VA).

During her life Mrs. Ezzell was predominantly a homemaker and worked in the textile industry as a machine operator.  She had a genuine love for her family and will truly be missed by each one of them.  She was also a big fan of gospel and country music.

A celebration of life is set for 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, in the Wells Chapel Baptist Church with visitation one hour prior at 1:00 p.m.  Family is requesting that, rather than floral arrangements, consideration be given to a contribution to the funeral home to assist with funeral arrangements.