Joye Marie Higgins Hanks, age 88 passed away at the Senior Home Share, Galax at 6:30 PM on Monday, August 31, 2020 after several years of declining health.

She was born in Carroll County, Virginia  on February 17, 1932 to the late Paul and Hazel (Robinson) Higgins. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Edward Ambrose Hanks, a sister Faye Carico; two brothers Clyde Higgins and Glendi Higgins.

She retired from Twin County Hospital after 30 years of service working in OB and the nursery. Also, she gave time volunteering with the Pipers Gap Rescue Squad.

The love in Joye's heart for her Lord, family and friends was clearly evident in her ever-present smile. She will forever be cherished in the memories of her three children six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law Judy and B.J. Dye of Low Gap, North Carolina; Ginger and Bill Vaughan of Galax, Virginia; son and daughter-in-law Ed and Tracy Hanks II of Galax, Virginia; grandchildren and spouses Holly and James Duhon, Tori and Carlos Ruiz, John Vaughan and Alley Blevins, Maggie Vaughan, Eddie Hanks III and Paige Hanks; five great-grandchildren Emerson Hurley, Memphis Duhon, Olivia Ruiz, Raven Vaughan and Maverick Vaughan; several nieces and nephews, other family, friends and neighbors.

Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, a drive-thru visitation will be held on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2020 from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM at the Oakland United Methodist Church, followed by a private graveside service held in the Oakland Cemetery with the Rev. Sam Bartlett officiating.

The family would like to thank special caregivers Lorraine Westerman and Debbie Brewer while Joye was at her home.

Our heartful gratitude goes to the Staff and Drs. of Novant Health Oncology, Mt. Airy, N.C.; Jackie Fox; Dr. John Tracy and Staff of Senior Home Share of Galax and Joye's special caregiver Becky Harris; Staff of Mountain Valley Hospice with special thanks to Stephanie Cable.

Vaughan-Guynn Funeral Home is serving the Hanks Family.

WE KNOW OUR MOTHER IS NOW SMILING AND WHOLE AGAIN IN THE ARMS OF JESUS!

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