May 5, 2021, 68, Seven Springs –

Joyce Karen Smith Lee, 68, was greeted at the gates of heaven by her Savior on Wednesday, May 5, 2021. Joyce was born in Thomasville, NC to the late Donald Reed Smith and Mary Kathleen Coggins Smith on February 6, 1953. A great celebration and welcome was offered to Joyce upon her arrival by her parents; her husband, Ressie James Lee; her son, Donald Cleo “Pebo” Lee; and grandson, Sha Gautier.

With fierce determination and a strong will, Joyce never met a task that she couldn’t handle. She could do anything she put her mind to, and no task was too large for her to tackle on her own.

Many guests were greeted and served by Joyce during her time at Seven Springs Restaurant. No matter what was on the menu, Joyce’s quick wit and smart mouth made those home-cooked meals all the better.

Even though Wendy’s couldn’t hold a candle to the food served at Seven Springs Restaurant, Joyce knew a deal when she saw it. Wendy’s “4 for $4” was just that deal for Joyce, and Krystal, Ryan, and Kaden made many a trip so she could enjoy that bargain.

Although Joyce worked long hours between the restaurant and caring for her family, she always made a little time for herself by settling down and watching her “stories”. Keeping up with the many romances, mysteries, and shockers presented, Joyce could tell you about every detail as if the casts were members of her own family.

Known in the neighborhood as “Mama Joyce”, she took in many neighborhood animals—and kids! She loved each one as her own and dedicated her time and energy to their needs.

Joyce was a loving mother and grandmother, and no better title was ever given to her than “Mema”. While her children never went without, she absolutely spoiled her grandkids. Her love was a sustaining force for each family member throughout her life.

A service to celebrate and remember Joyce’s life will be held in the chapel of Rouse Funeral Home on Saturday, May 8, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Ashley Summerlin officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.

Joyce is survived by her devoted daughter, Krystal Goodman; son, Ressie James Lee, Jr.; grandchildren, Ryan Jones, Kaden Jones, Hudson Price, Maci Lee, Reed Southerland, Zachary Lee, Alyssa Lee, Halie Lee, Sophia Lee, and Katlynn Gautier; and two special nieces, Shannon Smith Herring and Tabatha Smith.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.