Mrs. Joyce Hankinson Perrine

Mrs. Joyce Hankinson Perrine, a loving mother and devoted grandmother, passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025, at Atrium Health Main in Charlotte, North Carolina. She was 80 years old. 

Born on October 17, 1945, in Unadilla, Georgia, she was the youngest of seven children and carried with her the warmth and generosity that defined her character. Her educational journey began at Dooly County High School, from which she graduated in the Class of 1963. She earned an Associate Degree in Business from Tift College, paving the way for a prosperous career. Joyce's career was marked by her hard work and entrepreneurial spirit. She displayed her talents early on, cutting hair and sweeping floors at Lottie's Beauty Bar, and she further committed herself to Stevens Tire Company for many years. Her passion led her to become the Owner/Operator of Dairy Queen franchises with one in Byron, Georgia, and two in Commerce, Georgia. At the young age of 60, Joyce semi-retired, but her dedication to her work continued as she served as Secretary/Treasurer of the South East Association of Dairy Queens, a testament to her strong work ethic and leadership qualities.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Joyce was an incredibly talented woman with many hobbies and interests. Her passion for quilt making resulted in beautiful quilts that will be treasured by her family. She was also an excellent cook, and her love for sewing brought joy and comfort into the lives of those she cared for. Joyce was a devoted member of Foot Hills Baptist Church.

Joyce was a beacon of love for her family, always giving and nurturing those around her. Her family remembers her as a steadfast supporter who took care of them unconditionally throughout her life. Joyce is survived by her daughters: Vicki (Creighton Capel) Hankinson, Laura Perrine, Carol (Erik) White, Rhonda (Roger) Davis, and Elizabeth (Adam) Motlik; her sons, David (Mary) Hankinson, Bobby (Angie) Perrine, and Eric (Ashley) Perrine. She is also survived by her 25 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, numerous great-great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her beloved parents, Vester Oliver "Bus" Hannah, Sr. and Janie Pearl Thomaston Hannah, her husbands, Bobby Gene Hankinson and Robert Eugene Perrine, her son, Christopher Durwood Hankinson, her granddaughter, Taylor Krols, and her six siblings.

Funeral services for Joyce will held on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 3:00 PM, at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home. Rev. Ted Kandler will officiate, and interment will follow at Upson Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends on Friday, from 1:00 until 3:00 PM at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home.  

Joyce Hankinson Perrine leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering strength, and she will be profoundly missed by all who knew her. Her memory will continue to inspire kindness and generosity in those fortunate enough to have shared in her life.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.