Joyce Ward Mullis

Joyce Ward Mullis passed away on March 29, 2026, at Savannah Memorial Hospital at the age of 87.

Born on April 6, 1938, in Dexter, Georgia, Joyce lived a life marked by love, kindness, and generosity. She was the daughter of the late Oscar Lamar Ward and Geraldine Knight Ward. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Cecil Wayne Mullis of over 50 years, and her siblings, Ann Mench and Roy L. Ward. Joyce carried herself with grace and warmth throughout her life, and those who knew her will remember her as a sweet soul whose loving spirit touched everyone around her.

Joyce attended Dexter School, graduating in 1956, as Valedictorian of her class. She devoted much of her life to her family, who truly were her world. She is survived by her son, Kehl Mullis and his wife Sharon; her daughters, Kim M. McMillan and her husband Reid, and Karmen Mullis; her grandchildren, Brandi Mullis, Chelsea Stanley and her husband Nathan, Jason McMillan and his wife Julianne, Joshua McMillan and his wife Cynthia, Kate Kavuri, and Sophie Kavuri; and her great-grandchildren, Hayliee McMillan, and Bonnie and Bobby Stanley. Her family was the center of her life, and she found great joy in every gathering, milestone, and creating memories. She was especially known for making traditional holiday meals meaningful and memorable, filling her home with warmth, comfort, and the delicious food that reflected her excellent cooking and her serving heart.

In addition to her role as a devoted wife and loving mother, Joyce held a prominent position for nearly 60 years at Curry Realtors/Insurers, where she served as an Administrative Assistant to the Curry family as well as serving the community directly in her role as a top producing licensed realtor. She also served as Secretary of the Board of Realtors for many years. Her work reflected the same qualities that defined her life outside of her career, including kindness, generosity, and a sincere desire to help others.

Joyce was the first woman in Dublin to be licensed by the Real Estate Commission. She was the first woman member of the Dublin Board of Realtors and served as Secretary for over 40 years. Joyce was instrumental in establishing the Dublin Multi-List Service and served as its coordinator for over 30 years. Joyce was a lifetime member of the State Million Dollar Club and received the distinguished “Phoenix” Award in 1999. Joyce was recognized as a distinguished citizen of the state of Georgia and named in the state “Who’s Who” in Georgia in 1988, at which time she was presented with a plaque from the state.

A faithful member of Jefferson Street Baptist Church for over 65 years, Joyce found strength in her faith in God, her daily bible studies and devotions, and fellowship within her church community. Her faith and her gentle nature were evident in the way she lived each day. She enjoyed gardening, traveling, and reading, and she embraced life’s simple pleasures with gratitude and joy. Whether tending to her garden, exploring new places with her husband, or spending quiet time with a good book, Joyce appreciated the beauty in everyday moments.

Those who knew Joyce will remember her as loving, kind, and generous. She had a way of making others feel welcome and loved, and her presence brought comfort and joy to everyone who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the friendships she formed, and the countless lives she touched through her compassion and example.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until 2:00 PM on Monday, April 6, 2026, at Jefferson Street Baptist Church with a funeral service to begin at 2:00 PM at the church. Burial will follow at Dublin Memorial Gardens. Rev. Kyle Giddens will officiate.

Pallbearers will be Jason McMillan, Joshua McMillan, Brian Frentress, Nathan Stanley, Brett Ward, and Monty Hester.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation, the American Heart Association, or to Jefferson Street Baptist Church.

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