Joyce W. Slaydon
Joyce “Joy” Wright Slaydon passed away on Tuesday January 6, 2026, at the age of 92. She left behind a legacy of quiet compassion and a heart devoted to serving others. She was born in New Castle, Virginia, the youngest child of Hezzie and Grace Wright.
She now rejoins her family who went before her; her beloved husband James “Jimmy” Slaydon, her parents, Hezzie and Grace Wright; her sisters, Inas (Camp) Loan, Dorothy Tingler, Emma (Bill) Donahue, and Geneva (Jack) Abbott; her brothers, Bill (Beverly) Wright, and Ashby (McCoy) Wright; as well as a dear friend, Agnes Hamilton.
Left to cherish her memory are numerous nieces, and nephews, extended family and the many friends and neighbors whose lives were brightened by her heart and compassion; which includes those that cared for and visited her during her illness; nieces and nephews, Jerry and Kathleen Loan, Karen and Ricky Donahue, Steve and Lisa Minnix, Christy and Len Rickett, Angie and Kevin Tolley, Carl and Toby Babb, Michael Loan, Linda and JR McCroskey, Jane Wright, Beth Day, and Jeannette Warwick, Joe and Donna Tingler; goddaughter, JoEllen Armstrong; friends and neighbors, Anna Ritter, Karen and Phyllis Smith, Brenda Bauer, Judy Wilson, Scott Jones, and Katrina Milton.
Whether she was bringing a warm meal, sharing a kind word, or simply sitting with someone during a difficult moment, she gave of herself freely and without hesitation. Her presence brought peace, and her kindness touched countless lives.
Her family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the dedicated and wonderful nurses, physicians, and Chaplains of the Palliative, Hospice and Intensive Care Units at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Their compassion and care brought comfort during her final days, and the family is profoundly thankful. The family is also thankful to the nurses and physical therapists at Star City Rehabilitation for their kindness and care during her stay.
Her life was a testament to love expressed through service – small acts that made a big difference. She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.
“Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the Joy of your Lord”
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Cross Roads Church 21892 Craig Creek Road, New Castle, VA 24127.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 8, 2026 from 4 pm to 6 pm at Simpson Funeral Home, 5160 Peters Creek Road.
Graveside services will be held at 11 am on Friday, January 9, 2026 at Sherwood Memorial Park with Steve Minnix officiating.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to www.simpsonfuneral.com


