Joyce Burch Mock

Joyce Burch Mock, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of grace, strength, and love.

Born on May 16, 1935, to Perry Milton and Norma Byrd Burch in Eastman, Georgia, Joyce was raised on the Burch family farm in Chester, Georgia. A bright and gifted student, she graduated as Valedictorian of Chester High School in 1953, where she was also a star basketball player.

Joyce began her college journey at Berry College in Rome, Georgia, where she met the love of her life, Kermit Thomas Mock, Jr. The two were married on September 4, 1955, in the historic Barnwell Chapel on the Berry College campus. While at Berry, Joyce's many talents flourished-she sang soprano in the esteemed sanctuary choir, served as President of the Excelsior Honors Club, and consistently earned Dean's List honors.

After settling in Chattanooga in 1955, Joyce later earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics from the University of Tennessee in 1973, graduating magna cum laude. She was dedicated to teaching young people through her work as a Home Economics teacher in the Chattanooga Public School System, including at Tyner High School, Orchard Knob Middle School, and Hixson High School.

A gifted soprano, Joyce studied voice under Doris Doe at the Cadek Conservatory and was an active participant in the music program at Concord Baptist Church, where she often sang as a featured soloist. Her passion for music also inspired her to sing with the "Singing Dilettantes," a vocal group that performed throughout the Chattanooga area.

In 1984, Joyce and her husband founded My Favorite Things, a boutique antique shop in Ringgold, Georgia, specializing in fine English and French antiques. The couple traveled regularly to Europe, cultivating friendships and curating beautiful collections for their store.

Joyce was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 69 years, Kermit Thomas Mock, Jr.; her sister, Jacqueline Moore; her brother, Thomas Augustus Burch; and her cherished niece, Harriet Joy Stuckey.

She is survived by her children, Gregory (Angela) Mock of Ringgold, GA and Dr. Terri (David) Marin of Augusta, GA; grandchildren, Nathan (Sarah) Mock of Ooltewah, TN; Payton Mock of Woodstock, GA; Justin (Marshall) Mock of Acworth, GA; Abigail Grace Marin of Fairbanks, AK; and Lauren Mock of Kennesaw, GA; as well as several great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Joyce's legacy is one of warmth, creativity, and unwavering devotion to family, faith, and the arts. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

A celebration of Joyce's life will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2026 in the chapel of Heritage Funeral Home with Dr. Doug Plumlee officiating. Burial will follow in the Chattanooga National Cemetery with Steven Bell, David Marin, Nathan Mock, Payton Mock, Justin Mock, and Jeff Myers serving as pallbearers.

You may share condolences with the family at www.heritagechattanooga.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Berry College Scholarship Fund in memory of Joyce, honoring her love of music and education.

The family will receive friends Thursday, February 19th from 10:30 am until 12:30 pm at Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 E. Brainerd Road.