Joyce Handley

FRANKLIN - Joyce Richardson Handley, 84, was born July 20, 1941, in Chicago, Illinois, to Harry and Ethel Mae Richardson. She was the sister of Roger Richardson, Arlene Richardson Fike and Sherry Richardson Berry. She was the wife of William Handley.
Upon graduation from high school, Joyce went straight into the work force and spent almost 40 years in banking both in North Carolina and Florida. She and her husband also owned and operated the Courthouse Plaza Restaurant for several years. After retiring from banking at First Citizens Bank in Franklin, Joyce worked at the Fitness Center and at Nantahala Physical Therapy.
Joyce was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church in Franklin where she enjoyed greeting people entering the church. She also served as a member of Franklin's Board of Aldermen from 2007 to 2015.
Joyce loved football. She was always there to cheer on her sons as they played or coached. Then she had great fun cheering for her grandson, Ty. She loved Franklin Panther football, but it may have come in second to her football love of the Miami Dolphins.
Joyce loved a great meal. She loved the food even better if someone else had cooked it. You could say she was definitely a cat person since there was always a cat at the Handley house. Joyce also loved to dance. Play some good music and she'd be the first on the floor.
After living with three men, imagine her delight when Heidi, her daughter-in-love, came into her life. Then, even better, her granddaughter, Leighanne, was born. Some of Joyce's favorite times were lunch and dinner dates with Leighanne. She loved catching up and being a part of Leighanne's life.
Joyce leaves her family and friends with so many memories and smiles. She will be remembered as a people person. She enjoyed people. She was upbeat, outgoing, friendly and fun to be with. If you were fortunate enough to have known Joyce, you probably have a "Joyce story." She was that kind of person.
Joyce went on to Glory Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. Knowing where she was going did not stop her from doing her best to live another day. She leaves behind her husband, William Handley; son, Billy (Heidi) Handley; and grandchildren, Leighanne and Ty.
She was predeceased by her parents; son, Michael; and siblings, Roger, Arlene and Sherry.
Services will be held at First United Methodist Church in Franklin Thursday, Nov. 6, with visitation beginning at 4 p.m., and the service beginning at 5:30 p.m. There will be a reception following the service at the church.
If you would like to honor Joyce, please consider purchasing a gift card to a local restaurant instead of flowers.
Online condolences can be made at maconfuneralhome.com. Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.