Joyce Downing Fussell Reid

Joyce Downing Fussell Reid, 93, of Roanoke Rapids died Friday, January 23, 2026 in Bryan Health and Rehab in Scotland Neck. She was born in Edenton, NC, but was a lifelong resident of Roanoke Rapids. She is proceeded in death by her parents, Amanda Bennett Downing and Ruey Nicholas Downing; as well as her sisters: Jean, Madeline, Vera and Maxine. 

She is survived by her daughter, Carol Yates Baker of Williamsburg, VA, her son, Michael Yates (Mary Ann) of Roanoke Rapids.; her grandchildren, Alison Yates Berry (Scott) and Harrison Baker (Laura) of Falls Church, VA; her great grandchildren, Wynn Baker and Weller Harrison Baker, of Falls Church. She is also survived by her two brothers, Ray Downing (Roanoke Rapids) and Nick Downing (Nettie) of Cary, NC.

Mrs. Reid was employed for nearly 30 years by the Belk Leggett stores and knew scores of people through that role. She was a member of Roanoke Baptist Church.  Her great joy in life were her grandchildren, and she doted on them. She was a woman of strong faith and dedication to her family.

A Funeral Service will be held 4:00 PM on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at Hockaday Funeral & Cremation Service with Reverend Jason Yeatts officiating.  A Private Burial will be held on Thursday.  The family will receive friends from 2:00 - 3:30 PM prior to the service at Hockaday Funeral & Cremation Service.  Freinds may sign the online register by visiting www.hockadayfs.com.