Joyce Marie Jackson, of Abbot, passed away on July 23 at her home in the loving arms of her husband, Donald R. Prior. They were married on July 2, 1988.
Joyce was the daughter of Merrill A. Jackson and Dorothy H. (Reay) Jackson. Joyce grew up in the Waldoboro area and attended Waldoboro High School. Joyce had an outgoing fun-loving personality which fit well with her choice of a career in the restaurant industry. Joyce loved listening to and serving her customers whether they were her regulars or someone she just met. She made everyone feel welcome with her smile. She had worked as a manager and waitress at the Brass Compass, Cappy’s Chowder House, The Samoset and even the Chuck Wagon. She also owned the Friendly Stop in Waldoboro and worked as a dietician at Pen Bay Hospital.
In the last couple of years Joyce and Don had purchased their dream home in Abbot. Joyce loved decorating her home, she took great pride in creating each space, paying attention to detail, making it her own. Yard sales were a favorite too, her specialty, she always seemed to find the deals or dicker until she did.
Joyce also created areas outside her home for bird watching and gardening. Joyce loved being outside: fishing, boating, 4-wheeling and riding the Harley with Don. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, listening to music, dancing, playing horseshoes or just enjoying good food and drink while socializing with everyone. Joyce was a big fan of NASCAR racing; her favorites were Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Martin Truex Jr. She also enjoyed watching the Patriots. In the past few years Joyce and Don had a seasonal site at Duck Puddle Campground on Pemaquid Lake, enjoying the sun and taking part in all the festivities.
Joyce is predeceased by parents, Merrill and Dot Jackson; and siblings, Rodney, Michael, Marilyn, Jimmy, and Ricky Jackson.
Joyce is survived by her husband, Donald R. Prior of Abbot; children, Lori Hartin and husband Sterling of Stockholm, Gregory Holmes and wife Christa of Tenants Harbor, Gary Holmes and wife Lisa of Waldoboro, and Toby Teele of Warren; grandchildren, Katie Holmes, Sterling, Nickalaus and Joycelyn Hartin, Ashley and Madison Holmes, Layla Carter, Lindelle Teele, and Cameron and Jessica Gerrish; siblings, Ronald Jackson of Washington, and Suzie Jackson of Greensboro, N.C.; aunt, Barbara Jeness of Athens; several cousins, nieces and nephews; and mother-in-law, Penny Prior of Cushing.
To honor Joyce’s wishes, there will be a celebration of life at 1 p.m., Sat., Aug. 11 at Duck Puddle Campground in Nobleboro in the barn. Come join the celebration and share your memories.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the Pope Memorial Humane Society, 25 Buttermilk Lane, Thomaston, ME 04861 or call 207-594-2200. There was a very special place in her heart for her dogs Willie and Mocha.
Condolences may be expressed at laryfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are in the care of the Lary Funeral Home, Dover-Foxcroft.
