Joyce Dean Mcculley

Joyce Dean McCulley, was born in Walter Reed Hospital in Washington D.C. on September 2, 1954, a daughter to the late Mona Stuart Dean and Lt. Col. James T. Dean. She joined her siblings James T. Dean Jr. (deceased) and Mona Dean (Fleisher). We moved around a bit but settled in Corbin, KY, our mother's birthplace, which became "home." She attended East Ward Elementary and Corbin High School. Joyce was drawn to Knoxville, TN to attend business school where she met the love of her life and true soul mate, Phil McCulley. They shared 45years together, enjoying their marriage and their family. Their two children, James and Carrie Lee, who now live in Las Vegas, NV, benefitted from having fun-loving parents who loved any activity involving family. They ultimately followed, her sister, Mona to Salt Lake City, UT, which is where they spent most of their adult years. Joyce was a hard worker and had a knack for quickly being promoted wherever she worked. She worked at "Things Remembered" for many years, promoted to area training manager. She was respected by her staff and made many close friends. She was the recipient of many awards presented by "Things Remembered" corporate office. Joyce loved her family, her friends, candles, fine fragrances, animals of all kinds (but mostly dogs), reading, going to the movies, and laughter. We know she was met at the Rainbow Bridge by the many dogs she and Phil rescued. When Joyce's health took a turn a few years ago, She and Phil once again joined Mona, this time in Corbin, Kentucky. Corbin truly became "home." She was basically bedbound and Phil provided tender loving care for his sweetheart. He only left her bedside to run errands. Joyce and Phil shared tremendous love, respect, and devotion for each other. Joyce passed away very peacefully at home on July 3, 2022, with Phil and Mona saying their goodbyes. She has left a void that cannot be filled, and we will love and miss her forever. No formal service is planned but a group of friends will gather at a later date to laugh, reminisce, enjoy a little wine, and try to keep our chins up, which is what she would have told us to do. Our family would recognize Denise Brewer Lanham and Karen McNickle, her closest friends, and Linda Jones, her home health aide, with whom she had a special bond. If you are so inclined and would like to do something to honor Joyce, please consider making a donation in her memory to either: Knox-Whitley Animal Shelter, 66 Busy Lane, Corbin, KY 40701 or to Carnegie Center, 400 E. Center Street, Corbin, KY 40701. Joyce - do not rest in peace! Come see us as you can, but we know you're running around with your beloved dogs at the Rainbow Bridge, laughing and happy. We will love you forever. Phil, James, Carrie, and Mona Lee