Joyce Marie Sauls Benton

Joyce Marie Sauls Benton, of Goldsboro, North Carolina, passed away on October 8, 2026, at the age of 88. Born in Wayne County on May 16, 1938, Joyce lived a full life marked by love for her family, her pets, and a good bit of neighborhood gossip.

Joyce graduated from Eureka High School in 1957 and went on to spend most of her working years in the insurance business before retiring. She had one son whom she absolutely doted on, and she poured her heart into being his mother. After her first marriage ended in divorce, Joyce found real joy again when she married Billy Benton. The two of them loved taking trips together to the mountains, and Joyce always looked forward to those getaways.

Anyone who knew Joyce could tell you a few things about her right away. She had beautiful skin that folks envied, and she was an excellent cook who loved nothing more than feeding her family. She enjoyed being around people and was always up for finding out the latest news around town. Just one rule: you did not come visiting during her soap opera hours.

Joyce had a real green thumb and a knack for keeping her house plants thriving. She loved working in the yard, cooking for the people she cared about, and fishing at the beach. Her beloved pets held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Benton; her parents, Henry and Ora Lee Sauls; her brother, Melvin Sauls; her sister, Carol Evans; and her cherished pets, Zach and Spanky.

Joyce is survived by her son, Marty Barnes, and his wife, Tonia Barnes; her sister, Sandra Pridgen; and her sister-in-law, Clara Sauls.

A graveside service will be held on October 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in Eureka Cemetery, officiated by Mark Sauls.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations made to your favorite animal society in Joyce's memory.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff of Willow Creek in Goldsboro for their kindness and excellent care over the past two years. May Joyce rest in the peace of the Lord she trusted, surrounded now by those who went before her.

Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.