Nina Mae Penwell Joyner

Rocky Mount – Nina Mae Penwell Joyner, age 90, passed away on Monday, December 1, 2025.  Born in Portsmouth, VA on June 3, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Jack Penwell and Ruby Lilly Coggins Penwell.  She was also preceded in death by her husbands, William Henry Joyner Jr. and Junior B. Joyner; her daughters, Evelyn Nina Joyner Price and Sybil Lee Joyner Heaton; her brother, John Lee Penwell; her sister, Daisy Penwell; and her special friend, Doug Hux.

A loving and devoted mama, granny, and nana, Nina cherished and shared her goodness and love with her family and all those around her.  Blessed with strength and courage, her family now leaves her soul in the care of her Lord Jesus Christ and remains confident in his promise of eternal life.

“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.”

Nina is survived by her daughter, Kim Long; her 5 grandchildren, her 10 great-grandchildren; her 7 great great-grandchildren; and her extended family members and dearest friends.

A Private Family Service to celebrate Nina’s life will be held at a later date at Rocky Mount Memorial Park.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.