Obituary of Joyce Cashion Greenleese

Joyce Cashion Greenleese, 93, left her earthly body in the early morning of August 16, 2024. She was preceded in death by her husband, Capt. William E. Greenleese (USMC), daughter Rhonda, and son-in law Michael Evans. Left to cherish her memory are daughters Brenda Evans of Versailles, KY, and Glenda Kiddoo (Kevin) of Chapel Hill, NC; grandchildren Gareth Evans (Jennifer), Kerry Kiddoo, and Jared Evans; great-grandson Liam Evans; and very special and beloved sister-in-law Anne Cashion. Joyce was born in Kings Mountain, NC on October 1, 1930 to Charles and Minnie Lee Cashion. After attending Lenoir-Rhyne College, she moved to Jacksonville, NC and worked for the Red Cross aboard Camp Lejeune. It was there that she met a dashing helicopter pilot who would become her eternal partner and embarked upon the life of a military wife, which she adored. Bill’s postings took them to Texas, Florida, North Carolina, and California. Her life was forever changed when Bill was killed in a helicopter crash on April 14, 1967 in El Toro, CA. Fiercely independent, Joyce made the decision to move back to Jacksonville, NC with her three young daughters and Aunt Gertie in tow. She rekindled old friendships and eventually got her Real Estate License and went to work with her dear friend, Nell Vatcher. She decided on a career change and attended Coastal Carolina Community College studying Medical Transcription and immediately went to work for Dr. Takey Crist where she stayed until her retirement. Not one to sit still, Joyce joined the Onslow Memorial Hospital Auxiliary where she volunteered until she moved to Chapel Hill to be closer to her daughter. Joyce was a lover of music and lent her superb alto to the Camp Lejeune OWC Choraliers, The Community Chorus, and the Trinity United Methodist choir for over forty years. She enjoyed good humor and having fun, was a bit mischievous, and was always positive. She was the most excellent mother to her girls, who miss her enormously. A special thanks to her caregivers Anne Kariuki and Caroline Fauci who helped her live and pass with grace and dignity. Funeral services and interment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. Memorials may be made in her name to a charity of your choice.