HAMPSTEAD — Joyce Stokes Spencer, age 85 last of Hampstead, NC, passed away at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare on the 17th of April 2025.
Born on December 27, 1939, in Bishopville, SC to the late Clifton and Rozene Stokes, Joyce lived a life marked by warmth, dedication, and an unwavering faith that inspired all who knew her.
Throughout her professional journey, Joyce found her calling in the hospitality industry, dedicating most of her career to the Wilmington Hilton in downtown Wilmington. Here, she excelled in management, but more importantly, she touched countless lives through her genuine service and ability to connect with others. Her professional life was a testament to her love of people and her innate ability to make everyone feel welcome.
A woman of deep faith, Joyce walked closely with God throughout her life. She found spiritual nourishment at Long Leaf Baptist Church in Wilmington. In her later years, Joyce discovered a serene communion with God in her garden, spending hours each day creating a beautiful outdoor space that reflected her inner peace and vibrant spirit.
Known affectionately to many as “Mama Joyce,” she embodied love and inclusivity, never meeting a stranger and leaving everyone she encountered with a smile. Her love for her children, son-in-law, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was immense, and she was endlessly proud of who they are.
She is survived by her children Allan Huntsinger, Leta Huntsinger, and Shelley Register (Eric), grandson Tyler Register (Taylor) and their children Emersyn and Hayden, granddaughter Carley Register, siblings Evelyn McCaskill, Marian McGill, Linda Dillingham, Iris Latham, Marlene Deas, and Kenneth Stokes, and numerous extended family members and friends, who will cherish her memory and feel the profound impact of her absence. In addition to her aforementioned parents, she is predeceased by her husband of 42 years Ray Spencer and her brother Bobby Stokes.
A Memorial Service to honor Joyce’s well-lived life will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 11:00 am, with a time of Visitation starting at 10:00 am, at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation. The family requests that visitors wear vibrant colors in celebration of Joyce’s bright personality and her ability to always look on the bright side of life.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare of Wilmington in Joyce’s memory. Their compassionate care and love provided an invaluable support to Joyce and her family during her final days.
Joyce was loved by many and always made you feel welcome and part of her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness, dancing now in the loving presence of God, yet her absence leaves a hole in many hearts.
Please leave memories and condolences for Joyce’s family here.
