Nancy L. Joyner

Nancy Lee Joyner passed away on April 20, 2024. She was preceded in death by her parents Thomas J. Joyner and Lucille E.Joyner and special pal “Rosie.” She is survived by her life partner Karen M. Smith, her brother Thomas E. Joyner (Mary), niece Dana Joyner, nephews Matthew and Nathaniel Joyner, one grand niece and five grand nephews. Nancy graduated from Hampton High School (class of '58) and was proud to be a member of the award winning “Crabber Marching 100” as a majorette. Nancy graduated from James Madison University in 1962. She was the first elementary physical education teacher hired by the Alexandria School System in1962. She received her Master's degree from JMU in 1972. She studied Movement Education in England and that became her method of teaching. In 1984 she was recognized as Teacher of the Year for Alexandria Public Schools by the Washington Post. Due to her model elementary school physical education program, Nancy and her students were invited to the White House by Arnold Schwartzeneggar, head of the President's Council on Physical Fitness, to demonstrate activities for President George H. W. Bush and Mrs. Bush. Nancy retired from teaching 1995. Nancy was a prolific doll collector, and in 1978 co-founded the Now and Then Doll Club of Fredericksburg, VA. She was recognized in 2023 by the club and the United Federation of Doll Clubs for 45 years of doll collecting and contributing to the doll world. In addition to her passion for dolls, Nancy also had a passion for dance. From tap to modern to interpretive to hip-hop...she was a fan. As a performer in her younger years and later as a choreographer in her college years at JMU and teaching years in Alexandria, she was a fervent supporter of the terpsichorean art. She also enjoyed traveling and went on several doll trips to England and Europe. She also traveled to Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa as well as trips within the U.S. The family wishes to thank all Nancy's friends for their care and support at this time, and in particular, faithful friends Louise and Lorraine. Many thanks to the Aspen Hill Senior Living Facility and staff for their attention, kindness and love-Nancy was always in caring hands at this difficult time. Thanks as well to Capital Caring Hospice. The family wishes expressions of sympathy to take the form of donations to Aspen Hill Assisted Living, P.O. Box 7025, Woodbridge, VA, 22195 or Have a Heart Fund, Pender Veterinary Hospital, 9471 Manassas Drive, Manassas Park, VA 20111. Arrangements by Miller Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 3200 Golansky Blvd., Woodbridge, VA 22192. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

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Nancy L. Joyner

April 20, 2024