Ava Joyce Harris

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ava Joyce Harris, who left us on September 26, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on June 11, 1941, in North Carolina, Joyce made her home in Chesnee, SC and in her later years, Shelby, NC, where she lived a vibrant life filled with love, faith, and devotion to her family.

Joyce is survived by her loving daughters, Frances Lay and Angie Martin; sons, Franklin Harris, Jr. (Anita) and Frankie Martin; grandchildren, John Martin, Angel Cutshaw, Justin Harris, Kristen Finley, Chelsea Harris, Nathan Harris, Megan Depew, Bill Lay, and Breana Lay; many great grandchildren; siblings, R. D. McHone, Marie Reed, Noe Ott McHone, Jr., Mary Hunnicutt and Sandra Seals; nieces and nephews, who carries on her legacy of kindness and strength. She was a dedicated tax preparer at H&R Block, a job she truly loved and excelled in, known for her meticulous nature and warm personality that made her a favorite among clients.

Joyce was a proud member of the Bible Belt Baptist Church in Mayo, SC, where her faith shone brightly. She enjoyed playing the piano and singing with her family and found joy in every note. An intelligent woman with a passion for learning, she could often be found working diligently on crossword puzzles in her spare time, challenging herself and keeping her mind sharp.

Joyce's life will be celebrated with a visitation on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 12:00pm noon to 1:00 pm at the Greene Funeral Service - West Chapel, 216 Archie Whitesides Road Gastonia, followed by a heartfelt funeral service at 1:00 pm officiated by the Rev. Kenneth Linder. She will be laid to rest at Cherryville City Memorial Cemetery.

Joyce will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on through the countless lives she touched with her generosity and love. We invite all who knew her to join us in honoring her memory.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Franklin Harris, Sr.; parents, Noe and Annie Ava Buckner McHone Sr.; brother, C. J. McHone, sister; Iris Sue McHone.