Dorothy Lee "Dot" Joynes

Dorothy Lee "Dot" Justice Joynes, a cherished matriarch and beacon of unwavering strength, passed away at the age of 78 on May 30, 2025, at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in Salisbury, Maryland. Born in Eastville, Virginia, on January 21, 1947, to Milton Spady and Ida Handy, Dorothy's life was marked by early adversity when her mother passed away when she was just three years old. Embraced by the love and care of her adoptive parents Lelia and Arnie Justice, Dorothy grew up with a profound sense of family, later reuniting with her siblings and forming an inseparable bond with her cousin Elizabeth Robinson, who was like a sister to her.
Dorothy was the beloved widow of Percy Joynes, with whom she shared 29 years of marriage before his passing. She was a devoted mother, an exceptional mother-in-law, and a doting grandmother. Her educational journey led her from Withams Elementary School and Mary N. Smith High School to earning her GED in later years, exemplifying her determination and commitment to personal growth.
Professionally, Dorothy served as a dedicated custodian at Arcadia High School within the Accomack County Public Schools, retiring after years of impeccable service. Her involvement with Mt. Zion Independent Methodist Church in Withams, Virginia, was a testament to her deep faith and commitment to her community.
Passionate about gardening and cooking, Dorothy found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She had an affinity for the outdoors, where she would lovingly tend to her garden, coaxing beauty from the earth with a nurturing touch. Inside the home, her kitchen was a hub of warmth and delicious aromas, as she cooked not just to feed the body, but to comfort the soul.
Dorothy Joynes was renowned for her forthright nature, dispensing wisdom and truth with a loving yet firm hand. Her uncompromising honesty was a hallmark of her personality-she was a woman who inspired respect and admiration. Despite life's trials, Dorothy never let adversity dim her spirit. Her resilience and her ability to face challenges without complaint solidified her legacy as the epitome of a strong woman.
As she departs this world, Dorothy leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and indomitable spirit. Her absence creates a void that will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege to know her, and her memories will continue to inspire and guide her loved ones. Dorothy's life was a beautiful testament to the power of compassion, authenticity, and unwavering strength, and she will be profoundly missed.
In addition to her parents and husband, Dot was preceded in death by her adopted parents, Arnie Justice and Lelia Upshur; son, Barry Lamont Justice; grandson, La'Trone Frantez James, Jr.; great-grandson, Devion Darius Waters, Jr.; brothers, James Handy, Al Spady, and Irvin Handy; and sisters, Mary Handy and Ora Lee Handy.
Left to cherish her loving memories are her daughters, Albertine Wessells and Juanita (Latrone) James; son, George Wessells, III; grandchildren, Devion Waters, Travon James, Jalen James, Jeremiah Justice, Joshua Justice, and Jasmine Justice; six great-grandchildren; sister, Cora Lee Satchell; goddaughter, Shondell "Essie" Holland; special friends, Corrine Brown and Yvonne Holden; cousin who was considered a honorary sister, Elizabeth Robinson; and a host of other relatives and friends. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Dorothy Lee "Dot" Joynes (Justice), please visit our Tree Store.