James "Leaston" Joyner, 88, passed away Friday, July 14, 2017. He was born May 26, 1929 in Nash County to the late Bloss Edward and Ida Mae Eason Joyner. In addition to his parents, Leaston was preceded in death by his brothers Loomis, Reese, Carrol and a sister Rachel Winstead.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years Sarah Edwards Joyner; daughter Bonnie Joyner Tyson; 3 grandsons; 1 great-grandson.

Services will be held Monday, July 17, 2017 at 2 p.m. at Cornerstone Funeral Home with Rev. Gerald Parker officiating. An entombment will follow at the Joyner Family Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.