Jonny Crawford Joyner

Jonny Crawford Joyner of Wilson, NC, formerly of Lumberton, NC, passed away quietly on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 80 years of age. Jonny was born in Danville, KY on June 3, 1945, the daughter of LTC William Ashurst and Mary Mildred Hood Crawford. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Richard Douglas Crawford, and her husband of 34 years Jessie Lee Joyner. 

She is survived by her son William Thomas Cox II; her daughter Kelli Cox Davis; her son Daniel Carter Cox (Margaret Morrison Cox); and son Brian Michael Bersson (Yuvonda Smith Bersson). She is also survived by ten grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Jonny grew up in numerous locations and was well-traveled as the daughter of a career Air Force Officer. She lived in Kentucky, Texas, Maine, New York, Kansas, Georgia, and Germany in her formative years until finally settling down in North Carolina.

Her greatest joy in life was her family, who always felt at home wherever she was. She cared deeply for her friends and was always ready to lend a helping hand. With a quick wit and a sharp sense of humor, she could brighten any conversation. Strong-willed and determined, she faced life’s challenges with unwavering perseverance. Yet beneath her strength was a generous heart—one that gave freely of her time and resources to those in need.

Her legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

The family would like to express their great gratitude to the staff and nurses at Harmony Park at Wilson, Wilson Medical Center, UNC Hospital, and Hospice of Wilson for their care and comfort in the time preceding her death.