WILMINGTON — Joyce Brannock Mills, 91, passed away peacefully at home on November 8, 2025, surrounded by her family and beloved dog Lucy. Joyce was born on November 5, 1934, in Mount Airy, North Carolina, to the late Viola and Crockett Brannock. Joyce lived a life full of warmth, curiosity, and strength.
She was preceded in death by her parents, beloved sisters, Marjorie King and Gerri Brown, and husband, Arnold Mills. Joyce earned her teaching degree from Appalachian State University and spent ten years in the classroom, where her energy, humor, and no-nonsense attitude made her a memorable and beloved teacher.
After leaving education, Joyce found a new calling at a bridal and tuxedo shop, where she worked for many years. She had a gift for making people feel beautiful and confident, whether they were brides, grooms, or nervous prom-goers. Her eye for detail and her warm, spirited nature turned fittings into celebrations, and she took great pride in helping others shine on their special days.
Joyce was the proud mother of two daughters, Gerri Ann Zimmerman and Christy Rivers, and the cherished grandmother of Kristin Mozingo (Ryan), Zackary Goings (Janni), Kayla Rivers (Shawn), Courtney Rivers, and Miles Jenks (Mely). Her greatest pride was her ten great-grandchildren: Garret (Elizabeth), Landon, Caylee, Isabella, Bryson, Harper, Skylar, Mason, Jayce, and Sophia.
She leaves behind a large and loving extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Joyce found joy in the simple pleasures—reading a good book, tending to her yard, and spending time at the beach. But above all, she treasured every moment spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life.
