Joyce White Couey, 80, of Shelby, passed away on Monday, October 13, 2025 at Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte.


Born on September 6, 1945, in Cleveland County, she was a daughter of Joe Russell White and Anna Maude Queen White of Casar, North Carolina. A graduate of Appalachian State University, Joyce dedicated her life to serving the Shelby community through her work in education, social services, and with the board of elections. She was a longtime, active member of Shelby Presbyterian Church, where she served as a deacon and participated in numerous committees. Joyce was also involved in the Cecilia Music Club.


She found joy in gardening, particularly in caring for her flowers, as well as in shopping, baking, sewing, and spending time with her family and friends.


She was preceded in death by her parents.


Joyce is survived by her husband of 56 years, Paul Leverette Couey; her sister, Beth White Pruett and husband Ron Pruett; her children: Joel Thomas Couey and wife Lucretia Reynolds, Brian Daniel Couey and wife Yolanda Martinez, and Laura Couey Winters and husband Preston Winters; her grandchildren, Erik Couey, Jacob Couey, Samuel Couey, Benjamin Couey, and Bella Reynolds. She is also survived by her nephews: Greg Pruett, Mike Couey, and Mark Couey; her nieces: Melinda Danks, April Hensley, Betty Hopkins, Sarah Laughlin, and Lisa Brown; and her great-aunt, Hetty Harrington.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Shelby Presbyterian Church, with Pastor Drew Mangione officiating. Following the service, the family will host a light reception in the fellowship hall. A private committal service will take place in the church columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Joyce's name can be made to: Shelby Presbyterian Church P.O. Box 1444, Shelby, NC 28151 or to the Cecilia Music Club at 2357 Sheriff Allen Rd, Shelby, NC 28152.


Online condolences can be shared at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.


Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family.