Joyce Ackerman's Obituary
Joyce Blanton Ackerman 92, peacefully passed away April 16, 2024 at her home, Roxbury Mill in Thornburg, VA. Joyce was born February 9, 1932 in Guinea, VA. She was the daughter of the late William L. Blanton and Dorothy (Byrd Evans) Blanton. She was preceded in death by one sister, Evelyn Blanton Greene; and her husband, George Corwin Ackerman.
Joyce is survived by her daughters, Valerie Ackerman, Kimberly Ackerman, both of Spotsylvania County, Joy Ackerman Herbert and her husband, William, of Blacksburg, and Tracy Ackerman of Ruther Glen; grandchildren, Jordan Perrin, of Ruther Glen, Justus Perrin, of Portland, OR, and Taylor Banks of Ruther Glen; nephew, Lawrence Greene and his wife, Anne, of Mechanicville; and not to forget her fur babies, Baby and Bud Bud.
Joyce attended school in Bowling Green, VA. and soon after left to pursue a career at the Pentagon and Georgetown University. She moved to Maryland where she met her husband George and then moved back to Caroline County. In 1969 they found and renovated historic Standards Mill (Roxbury) and called it home. In the mid 70's they purchased a historic building on the corner of Fauquier and Princess Anne Streets and what was a antique store gradually became the popular Smythe's Cottage Restaurant. The restaurant ran for a little over a decade and was well known for its "Peanut Soup and Turkey Shortcake". It also became a Fredericksburg gathering spot in the evenings, where people could enjoy music and many friends were made. Joyce also operated Roxbury Mill B&B and Catering Business and catered to many beautiful weddings at her home.
Joyce was a community fixture in Fredericksburg and if you knew her you knew she was a force to be reckoned with. Always known as "The Life of The Party", and her love of entertaining, singing and playing the piano. We take comfort in knowing that her spirit and zest for life will live on in our hearts. She will be greatly missed.
The family will receive friends from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Sunday, April 28, 2024 at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel, 10719 Courthouse Road, Fredericksburg. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 29, 2024 at Bethany Baptist Church, 5001 Arcadia Road, Woodford, VA 22580. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. A repast will follow the burial at Roxbury Mill.
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