Mrs. Joyce Bullard O’Neal went to be with her lord on Feb. 4, 2024 at the age of 81. Graveside services were held Thursday at 11:00 am at the Berea Cemetery. Elder George Scott officiated. Surviving are her husband, William O’Neal; two daughters, Ada (Darren) Hardwick, Oakboro, N.C. and Julia Aldava Bullard, Rockingham, N.C;
two grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, Frederick Monroe Bullard, Rockingham, NC.
My mother, Joyce Bullard was a beautiful soul. She touched many lives in Richmond Co., where she served the schools for 30 years as a special education assistant. She loved her job, the children & all her co-teachers. Everyone I’ve spoken to said she was an absolute beautiful and unforgettable woman! She called her students turkeys, a loving way to make right the days & put the children at ease. She was a joker and comedian who loved to have fun and laugh with others. People have called to send their love, some with many stories to tell about mama’s shenanigans & fun, loving spirit, She loved to keep people laughing and happy -as long as everybody was happy Mama was happy.! My mother & father, Fred Bullard, were married at East Rockingham Free Will Baptist Church by preacher Carter where they became active members.
A lifelong lover of music with talent to match – not only did she have an impeccable voice, she played many instruments by ear, and taught me as well on our family piano. I was fortunate enough to have my mother share these wonderful moments and love – she was so very proud that I loved music and the joy of harmonizing, against her almost identical voice tone, an unforgettable magic, making music a permanent part of my life as well. Her angelic voice, such a beautiful gift from God, was used throughout her life to glorify her Lord and Savior.
I know her spirit is with me every morning I open my eyes. I hear her singing her favorite song. “When they Ring those Golden Bells, for you and me”. In Jesus name we pray, one very special angel received her wings & joined his heavenly choir ~Amen
